Fandom Discussion: How did Snape get his nickname?

[themostepotente]

In book number five, we learn that Severus has a very unflattering nickname -- this, of course, being Snivellus.

We've been left to wonder if this is simply nothing more than a bastardization of 'Severus,' or if 'Snivellus' has a much deeper meaning. 'Snivellus' would seem to indicate 'sniveling', yet when he unwillingly becomes the target of the Marauders' bullying in the 'Snape's Worst Memory' chapter, he seems only to lose his temper with a feeble attempt at getting even. Not even when he's hung upside down are we given any indication that he's moved to tears. Of course the Pensieve scene cuts out with James asking if anyone would like to see Snape pantsed, but what about before this incident?

Was Severus Snape prone to tears from repeated bullying -- or perhaps you have another explanation?

How do you think Severus earned his nickname?

--P

Comments

[iibnf.livejournal.com]

Sometimes when people get angry, they cry. Which makes them angrier... So it's possible he's had an angry cry or two. He seems the type.

On the other hand, I went to school with Elle McPhearson, and her nickname was Smelly Ellie, and that was just because it rhymed, not because she smelled.

[themostepotente.livejournal.com]

Sometimes when people get angry, they cry.

Oh GOD, can I attest to that.

Ha ha ha -- did you call Elle 'Smelly Ellie', Bernice? *G*

[iibnf.livejournal.com]

No, I never did. I'd like to say it's because I'm a good person and I don't care to humiliate people (which I don't, unless I really hate them) but truth is I have enough trouble remembering people's real names without trying to remember nicknames, too.