this post was submitted on 16 Aug 2025

241 points (99.6% liked)

Nominative Determinism

nominativedeterminism@feddit.uk

1,161 readers

6 active

1 user here now

Nominative determinism is the hypothesis that people tend to gravitate towards areas of work that fit their names. The term was first used in the magazine New Scientist in 1994, after the magazine's humorous "Feedback" column noted several studies carried out by researchers with remarkably fitting surnames. These included a book on polar explorations by Daniel Snowman and an article on urology by researchers named Splatt and Weedon. These and other examples led to light-hearted speculation that some sort of psychological effect was at work.

This is a community for posting real-world examples of names that by coincidence are funny in context. A link to the article or site is preferable, as well as a screenshot of the funny name if it's not in the headline. Try not to repost, and keep it fun!

founded 2 years ago

moderators

Dr Nick Burns-Cox consultant Urologist (feddit.uk)

submitted 11 months ago* by Denjin@feddit.uk to c/nominativedeterminism@feddit.uk

8 comments fedilink hide all child comments

all 8 comments

sorted by: hot top controversial new old

[–] Kyrgizion@lemmy.world 19 points 11 months ago (2 children)

No doctor, I'd really rather you not.

hideshow 4 child comments

[–] JizzmasterD@lemmy.ca 8 points 11 months ago

Not before BBC breakfast, please

parent

[–] Zorsith@lemmy.blahaj.zone 6 points 11 months ago

I mean, vasectomies can include cauterizing i think?

parent

[–] ShankShill@sh.itjust.works 16 points 11 months ago (1 child)

I'll see your Burns-Cox and raise you one Richard "Dick" Chopp.

hideshow 2 child comments

[–] Aggravationstation@feddit.uk 6 points 11 months ago

Would be a better name for a rabbi

parent

[–] fubarx@lemmy.world 12 points 11 months ago

His career choice was foretold by his ancestors.

[–] Mongostein@lemmy.ca 10 points 11 months ago (1 child)

Hi everybody!

hideshow 2 child comments

[–] BagOfHeavyStones@piefed.social 8 points 11 months ago

Hi Doctor Nick!

parent