A person who is obsessively interested in something, often seen as boring; a nerd
Anorak
Example Sentences
"He's a real anorak about trains."
"Only an anorak would know that."
Etymology & History
British term for waterproof jacket with hood, from Greenlandic Inuit 'annoraaq'. Originally practical outdoor wear, became associated with trainspotters and obsessive hobbyists in 1980s. 'Anorak' now means boring person obsessed with technical details. The dual meaning (clothing/personality) is particularly British.
Word Details
📍
Region
General British
📅
Era
1980s
✓
Language
Mild
💬
Formality
Formal
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Anglotopia's Dictionary of British English 2nd Edition
British Slang from A to Zed
By Jonathan Thomas
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