Oxford Dictionary of Nicknames

The English‐speaking world seems to give nicknames to those people we either love or hate. Thus, the much‐worshipped jazz singer Billie Holiday is frequently known as “Lady Day”, whereas the equally good, if not technically superior, singer Ella Fitzgerald has never had a nickname. The much‐loved American golfer Jack Nicklaus has the nickname “The Golden Bear”, alluding to his sturdy build and blond hair, whereas his contemporary Gary Player has no such sobriquet; strange this, since he always played dressed in black, there are several obvious names which could have been applied. If you have ever wondered what pet name...