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May 23, 2005
What is a Dork?
So what exactly is a Dork? The meaning appears to have changed over the years. Where's a good etymologist when you need one? When I was a kid, "Dork" was used primarily in a derogatory tone and typically meant something akin to "silly, idiotic, irritating goofball" and usually inferred that the owner of the title had no clue regarding what was hip or cool or otherwise socially acceptable. After endless discussions with my daughter, however, I've discovered that in today's culture, "Dork" has a different, possibly even a positive connotation. Thus, this study in the social ecology of Dork was born.
The wikipedia definition of Dork "describes someone who is typically socially inept, but in such a way that people enjoy the dork's company in spite, or even because of it." Hmmm. I'll buy about 75% of that definintion. How about this for a definition?
A Dork is someone who is just off-beat enough that they don't care to follow the obvious trends. Because of this a Dork would never be classified as hip or cool (so not much has changed there.) While to the untrained or shallow person a Dork may appear socially inept, a Dork is actually quite adept at interacting with many social groups. It would be very common to see a Dork interacting successfully with a geek, nerd, prep, band twinkie, artist, and so on. A Dork would not adopt the dress or mannerisms of these subgroups in any significant way.
I don't believe there is a specific correlation between dorkiness and intelligence or accomplishment. I've met Dorks who possess outstanding skills and abilities in multiple areas (a double or triple threat Dork), and Dorks who are just plain average.
One thing is clear, Dork is actually a term of great affection used between Dorks. As a matter of fact, many Dorks feel quite honored to be referred to as a Dork. It's a point of pride. So from time to time in this blog, if I refer to someone as a Dork, it's always from a position of respect, and affection.
Posted by Sheryl at May 23, 2005 10:49 PM