hypocorism Definition
- 1the practice of using a nickname or pet name
- 2a nickname or pet name
Using hypocorism: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "hypocorism" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
'Hank' is a hypocorism for 'Henry'.
Example
She calls her boyfriend 'babe' as a hypocorism.
Example
The hypocorism 'Liz' is short for 'Elizabeth'.
hypocorism Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for hypocorism
- nickname
- pet name
- term of endearment
Phrases with hypocorism
a nickname that implies smallness or endearment, often used for children or pets
Example
The dog's name was 'Rufus', but his owner called him 'Rufie' as a diminutive hypocorism.
a nickname that implies familiarity or closeness, often used between friends or family members
Example
Her familiar hypocorism for her sister is 'Sis'.
a nickname that implies professionalism or formality, often used in the workplace or academic settings
Example
His professional hypocorism for his colleague is 'Dr. Smith'.
Origins of hypocorism
from Greek 'hypokorisma', meaning 'endearment'
Summary: hypocorism in Brief
'Hypocorism' [hahy-puh-kawr-iz-uhm] refers to the practice of using a nickname or pet name. It can also mean a nickname itself, such as 'Hank' for 'Henry'. Hypocorisms can be categorized into types like 'diminutive hypocorism,' which implies smallness or endearment, and 'professional hypocorism,' which implies formality or professionalism.
