Used by hackers, this is synonym with {computer geek}. Non-hackers sometimes use it to describe all techies. Probably derives from SF fandom' s tradition (originally invented by old-time fan Ray Faraday Nelson) of propeller beanies as fannish insignia (though nobody actually wears them except as a joke). [ef="module.php?name=Lexikon&file=search&eid=1&query=Jargon File">Jargon File] (1995-01-18)
