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

[starkittyn.livejournal.com]

You know, I always figured it was the way people make up names that rhyme for people they hate. Severus-Snivellus ...I never thought it had to do with anyone actually seeing him cry and I find it highly unlikely that he would cry in front of anyone without extreme provocation and the thought that Severus was crying say over a family member's death and Sirius made fun of him makes me want to smack Sirius. *sigh* *protects teh Sev*

Anyway, my two cents as per usual.

Um. However, if he did cry for some reason we do not as yet know, I suppose it's *possible* since he does not seem to be terribly in control of his emotions if we take his regular explosions of temper as written. I mean, yelling may seem more of a big deal to Harry since one assumes that for the most part, the Dursleys are at pains that no neighbors hear anything untoward.

[themostepotente.livejournal.com]

*ducks* I kinda like when Sirius belittles Severus.

[starkittyn.livejournal.com]

You know I love Sirius, but sometimes he really needed someone to stick a dirty sock in his mouth. *g*