Ahhh, the proverbial geek.  Long has the term found its way into the English language as a pejorative term referring to computer enthusiasts.  However, the word originates from Austria-Hungary in the 18th century referring to side show performer or gecken.  The Merriam-Webster dictionary adds insult to injury with its three definitions of the term:

1. a carnival performer often billed as a wild man whose act usually includes biting the head off a live chicken or snake
2. a person often of an intellectual bent who is disliked
3. an enthusiast or expert especially in a technological field or activity

In recent years the term has appreciated significantly in stature and carries with it a certain cachet as personal computers have become widespread and the Internet and Web have come into vogue.  Having reached a pinnacle of popularity thanks in part to uber-geeks like Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg, ”geek chic” is now an easily identifiable, mainstream fashion movement that emphasizes creative style and technology.  Geeks have come a long way from their humble and sordid origins as carnival spectacles and will no doubt continue to infiltrate every trade and personal interest that can be pursued with obsessive zealotry.  Live long and prosper!

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