Over half the nation (52%) use a nickname according to a new survey, with (47%) of Brits better known by their nickname than their actual name.
However, despite the widespread use of nicknames, over half of Brits (52%) don’t think it’s acceptable for everyone in their life to give them one.
In fact, almost one in 10 believe the use of nicknames is insulting in some scenarios. This is especially true in the professional world, with nearly half (46%) claiming a nickname is a major no-no at work.
The research, conducted by name label manufacturer mynametags.com, found that school is the breeding ground for most nicknames that carry into adult life. Over half (51%) of Brits acquire their lifelong nickname by the time they finish their GCSEs. These are most commonly abbreviations of first names, terms of endearment, and results of inside jokes.
However, not all nicknames are earned and 9% of Brits admit to giving themselves their own nickname.
The research also reveals that nicknames are more common amongst young people, with adults aged 18-24 almost twice as likely to go by a nickname than older generations aged over 65.
This trend for informal names is also reflected in young parents’ name choices. Analysis of Office for National Statistics (ONS) baby name data shows that parents are increasingly opting for nicknames as given names with the likes of Charlie, Freddie, Rosie, and Eliza all outranking their traditional counterparts in 2024.
“Our research shows that nicknames are clearly a cornerstone of British culture, helping people forge bonds and foster familiarity,” comments Lars B Andersen, Managing Director at mynametags.com. “We speak to parents every day and have seen first-hand that nicknames are being used more than ever before. And, with the younger generation embracing abbreviations as given names as they become parents, we anticipate that names will continue to become increasingly informal over time.”
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