Well--what about AsP? My opinion: nicknames can and do indicate affection, but. On this subject, I agree with the people who say that disparaging nicknames are an indication of hidden hostility. On the occasions when I use some not-nice-sounding name, I have made sure (or tried to) that the recipient knows I am trying to be funny--and I never do it repeatedly. The chance for hurt is too high. This is one thing that I have absolutely no sense of humor about.