> Though the term is "nerd", now, and it's become possibly respectable

I don't think this is true. I think that there are "nerdy" things that have become trendy (like thick framed glasses, playing retro video games and music, or being smart), but its still not cool to be a true nerd. (or maybe "nerd" is being redefined)

See this Portlandia sketch that explains my point: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J9Jbz4c_WKA