The terms 'nerd' and 'geek' are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same.

A 'nerd' is someone with an extremely intense interest or fascination in an academic field of study (often an obscure field). Being a nerd is typically associated with intellect, as they often enjoy specialising in complicated fields of study. Nerds may also have difficulties socialising with others, as they may border on being classified as a 'genius'. An alternative definition is that a nerd is often (but not always) very intelligent, and has 'skillz', spelled with a 'z' to indicate that the skill set is uncommon, or perhaps impractical. This may cover a broad range of interests, from movies to games (video and table-top), to more practical skills such as computer science.

A 'geek' is someone with an interest or lifestyle, usually an obscure one, having to do with computers, science fiction, etc. For example Star Trek, World of Warcraft, or anything like that are typical areas of interest. Geeks can vary in their interests, from fun and sometimes even frivolous things, to heavy technological influences. An alternative definition of 'geek' is someone who is a nerd without 'skillz'.
Source(s):
http://www.wikihow.com/Tell-the-Difference-Between-Nerds-and-Geeks

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The original use of "geek" referred to a carnival sideshow entertainer who bit the heads off chickens or did other bizarre things.

Now they go on Fear Factor. I'm sorry, but I couldn't eat a worm for a million bucks. I was a nerd in high school but I'm pretty cool now, or so I've been told.
Source(s):
http://www.answers.com/topic/geek

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