What is a nerd? The definition that is provided by students today is completely different from what a nerd actually is.  A nerd is a foolish or contemptible person who lacks social skills or is boringly studious. Students of today define a nerd as someone who is smarter than you. Someone who enjoys learning and obtaining new information in general for his/her own sake. Before you call someone a nerd, take the time to really think about the actual definition.