There’s something magical about nicknames. They’re not just shorter versions of our names or quirky monikers; they’re pieces of identity gifted to us by the people who truly see us. I firmly believe everyone should have a nickname—whether it’s used daily or just shows up on special occasions—because nicknames carry a weight that formal names rarely do. They’re like tiny badges of honor that say, “You matter to me, and this name proves it.”

Nicknames are nothing new. In fact, they’ve been around for centuries. The very word nickname comes from the Middle English word ekename, meaning “also-name.” Over time, people shortened names and added playful twists—think Robert turning into Hob, then Hobkin, then Robin. These weren’t just casual name swaps; they were signs of familiarity and affection, just as they are today.

The Power of a True Nickname

The thing about a real nickname? It’s not something you give yourself. That would be like trying to surprise yourself with a party—you can do it, but it’s nowhere near as meaningful. A nickname, when given, holds sentimental value because it’s rooted in shared memories, affection, or even hilarious inside jokes that no one else will ever understand.

Take my nickname, IttyBitty. It’s not something I sat around brainstorming like a brand-new email address. It was given to me by my late friend, Norm—a man with a knack for seeing people exactly as they were. Of all the names and labels I’ve ever worn in life, “IttyBitty” is one of the only true nicknames I’ve ever had. And boy, has it stuck. Even now, hearing someone call me “IttyBitty” feels like Norm’s voice is still echoing somewhere in the background, keeping his memory alive. That’s the sentimental power of a nickname—it becomes part of your story.

Norm Strehl

“Gone But Never Forgotten”

Nicknames aren’t just names—they’re connections. They remind us of the people who’ve shared our journeys, who noticed something unique about us, or who simply loved us enough to create a name that says more than our birth certificate ever could. They can be funny, heartfelt, or even weird (looking at you, “Hobkin”), but they’re always personal.

If you don’t have a nickname yet, don’t sweat it. You can’t force one. They show up when you least expect it, like a badge of belonging. And when one finally sticks? It’ll mean more than any self-appointed title ever could.

Nicknames have been part of human history for hundreds of years, evolving from medieval times when names were shortened, rhymed, or “kin-ified,” to today’s affectionate or humorous monikers. They’re snapshots of relationships, little reminders of who we are to the people who matter.

So, whether you go by a nickname every day or just light up when someone special calls you by one, it’s worth having that tiny piece of identity floating around in your story.

Do you have a nickname with a story behind it?
I’d love to hear it—drop it in the comments below!