Calling people by nicknames

Interpersonal relations

Question

Why is it frowned upon to call people by nicknames

Answer

In many instances, referring to an individual by their nickname can be considered demeaning. Such an address may imply a level of intimacy that is inappropriate, especially when the individuals are not related.

There are instances where using a nickname is expressly prohibited, particularly when the nickname is offensive or degrading. It is believed that individuals who engage in giving degrading nicknames may face severe consequences, as indicated by the saying that they will never ascend from Gehinom.

Source

Bava Metzia 58b

‘All those who descend to Gehinom ascend from it except for three categories of people who descend and never ascend. Among them are those who give others degrading nicknames'.

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