The Most Offensive Nicknames of 9 Idaho Cities

When Did People Start Using Nicknames?

People started using nicknames a long time ago! We were surprised to learn the use of nicknames dates as far back as 1303.

Reporter Herald notes the term nickname originates from the Middle English word, "eaca," meaning "an increase." Around the 15th century, "eaca" had transformed into "an ekename," followed by "a nekename." From there, it's easy to see how people eventually arrived at the term we know and use today.

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What's In a Nickname?

In short, nicknames are alternative names given to people, places, or things. They often indicate a sense of familiarity or closeness to the noun in reference. It's common for nicknames to be humorous, affectionate, amusing, or descriptive of an accomplishment, a trait, or a character quirk.

Chicago/The Windy City, New York City/The Big Apple, and Paris/The City of Love, for example, are three of the most well-known city nicknames around the world.

Not-So-Nice Nicknames

Many nicknames come from an unpleasant or negative point of reference. Their purpose is to defame, humiliate, or belittle.

When we were younger, siblings and playground bullies were known for crafting especially embarrassing nicknames. But a lot of us imagined the transition from adolescence to adulthood would do away with the dubbing of mean-spirited nicknames.

We were wrong! This is especially true between/among Treasure Valley cities and cities across the board in Idaho. Think about how often you've heard city-bashing via low-blow nicknames for places like Nampa and Garden City.

Scroll on for a look at the official/unofficial nicknames of 11 Idaho Cities!