Why weird nicknames make your relationship stronger

Just ask Pookie

“Pookie”, “McSteamy”, or “Babycat” aren’t exactly cute in the public sphere, but those weird nicknames aren’t just silly; they’re a sign your relationship is thriving.

We all want to roll our eyes when we hear couples throwing around baby talk or cringeworthy nicknames in public. But as much as you want to vomit in your mouth, there is an excellent reason that 75 per cent of us admit to dropping these (borderline embarrassing) terms of endearment. 

Baby talk and weird nicknames are the building blocks of a stronger connection. And guess what? The more bizarre the nickname, the tighter the bond. So, if you’re still calling your partner by their actual name, it’s time to step up your game.

The secret language of love (yes, It’s cringe-worthy)

According to a study in the Sage Journal, couples who use pet names, baby talk, or made-up words are onto something. It’s known as a couple-specific language. Couples in this verbal play feel more satisfied and connected in their relationships.

It’s as if you’re communicating in code, a secret language only the couple knows. This private vocabulary creates a more profound sense of intimacy. These silly names reflect the security, comfort, and trust you’ve developed with your partner.

Five reasons weird nicknames matter

#1. They build your “culture of two.”

When you and your partner create a language, you build a world only you share. It’s a verbal manifestation of your unique connection, a private space where you can be your most authentic, sometimes ridiculous, self. That “culture of two” makes your bond feel special; no one else gets it because it’s yours.

Think about it: when did you last use a silly nickname on someone you didn’t feel close to? Exactly. Pet names are reserved for people who’ve earned that closeness.

#2. They strengthen your emotional intimacy

Weird nicknames are like verbal personal jokes. You might feel ridiculous saying them, but they’re a sign that you and your partner are emotionally comfortable with each other. You're becoming more vulnerable and sharing parts of yourself that you wouldn’t usually show others. If that isn’t a solid foundation for long-term emotional intimacy, I don’t know what is.

#3. They’re giving playfulness!

Relationships can get really heavy, really quickly, among the rest of life’s pressures, responsibilities, and stressors. But sticking to playful ridiculous nicknames, helps bring fun back into the mix. Playfulness is underrated in relationships, but it’s vital to keeping things light and enjoyable. It reminds you that even when life is serious, your relationship doesn’t always have to be.

Pet names are reserved for people who’ve earned that closeness. Image: Pexels

#4. They mute the ego

When you're willing and open to screaming "Snuggle Muffin," you're letting go of your ego. You're (clearly) unconcerned with how people see you and prefer connection over appearance, which is where true closeness stems from.

#5. Nicknames = vulnerability

Vulnerability isn’t just word vomiting all your traumas; it's about letting yourself be weird without judgment. These pet names are a form of vulnerability, allowing you to be flawed and human. You’re letting go of the mask and trusting your partner can match your freak.

Get weird, stay close

Hearing your nicknames may make everyone else want to vomit, but who cares? They’re not in your relationship; you are! If they help you feel more connected, playful, and confident with your partner, keep them coming, Shmoopie!

Originally published as Why weird nicknames make your relationship stronger