Nicknames for Him (300+ Sweet, Funny & Romantic Names)

You know that moment when “babe” just doesn’t cut it anymore, and you’re scrolling through your phone trying to find the perfect contact name for your guy?

I’ve been there, staring at my screen at 2 AM, wondering if “Snack Provider” was too weird or just weird enough. Trust me, the struggle is real.

I’ll never forget the day my partner caught me saving him as “Pizza Guy” in my phone after our third date. His eyebrows shot up, and I had to explain that anyone who remembers my obsession with extra mushrooms deserves a title.

Fast-forward three years, and he’s cycled through everything from “Adventure Buddy” to “Snack Thief Supreme.”

The evolution of nicknames in a relationship tells its own love story—from tentative sweet names to confident inside jokes that only the two of you understand.

Here’s the thing: the right nickname isn’t just about being cute or funny.

According to a 2024 relationship study by the Gottman Institute, couples who use personalized nicknames report 23% higher relationship satisfaction scores than those who don’t.

Those little terms of endearment? They’re actually verbal hugs that strengthen your emotional bond every single time you use them.

Whether you’re looking for something classically romantic, hilariously quirky, or downright swoon-worthy, this massive collection of 300+ nicknames will help you find the perfect name that captures your unique dynamic.

From timeless terms of endearment to modern pop culture references, we’re covering every category imaginable.

Picture this as your ultimate nickname database—bookmark it, save it, and come back whenever you need inspiration for mixing things up.

Sweet & Romantic Nicknames

Let’s start with the classics—those timeless terms of endearment that never go out of style. These are perfect for texts, Instagram captions, or whispering across the dinner table when he does something that makes your heart melt.

• Honey – Timeless and warm, perfect for someone who brings natural sweetness to your life
• Sweetheart – Traditional yet deeply sincere, works beautifully for both new and long-term relationships
• My Love – Simple but profoundly meaningful, emphasizes your complete commitment
• Darling – Vintage charm meets modern romance, sophisticated and tender in equal measure
• Baby – The universal go-to that never goes out of style, comfortable as your favorite sweatshirt
• Angel – For someone who feels heaven-sent into your life, divine timing personified
• Prince Charming – Fairy-tale romance for your modern-day hero who still opens doors
• Sunshine – He brightens every single day you spend together, like morning light through curtains
• My Heart – Literally tells him he’s at the center of your entire world
• Treasure – Shows he’s your most valued possession, more precious than anything material
• Beloved – Poetic and profound, borrowed straight from classic literature and wedding vows
• Dreamboat – Retro-cool nickname with playful vibes, think 1950s romance
• Sugar – Sweet and affectionate, perfect for quick texts and casual conversation
• My Everything – All-encompassing love wrapped in just two powerful words
• Sweetness – Gentle and caring, celebrates his softer side
• Lovebug – Adorable and slightly quirky, the love infection you never want to cure
• Heartthrob – He still makes your heart skip beats after all this time
• My World – He’s your entire universe wrapped in one incredible person
• Precious – Shows exactly how much you value and cherish him
• Romeo – For your poetic, romantic partner who isn’t afraid of grand gestures
• Cupid – He shot his arrow straight through your heart and never looked back
• My King – Royalty treatment for your number one, crown not included but implied
• Amour – French sophistication for your love, elegant and worldly
• Mi Amor – Spanish passion in two beautiful words, telenovela-worthy
• Beau – Southern charm meets timeless elegance, classic with a twist
• Honeybun – Playfully sweet, great for couple photos and bakery dates
• Sweetie Pie – Comfort food meets comfort person, wholesome and delicious
• My Star – He’s the one you wish upon, guiding light in darkness
• Dream Guy – Because dreams really do come true, pinch-yourself perfect
• Lover Boy – Playful with just the right amount of cheese, confidence included
• My Soulmate – Deep connection that transcends the ordinary, spiritually aligned
• Perfect One – He’s everything you’ve been searching for, flaws and all
• My Forever – Emphasizes your long-term commitment, til-death-do-us-part vibes
• Sweet Prince – Gentle royalty vibes without being over-the-top dramatic
• My Sunshine – Possessive form makes it even more personal and intimate
• Heart’s Desire – What romance novels are made of, unapologetically passionate
• My Joy – He’s your happiness personified, walking smile generator
• Beloved One – Biblical undertones with modern sweetness, spiritually grounded
• My Happiness – Straightforward and deeply meaningful, no interpretation needed
• Sweet Love – Combines two powerful romantic words into one perfect phrase
• My Dream – He’s everything you imagined and so much more
• Heartbeat – He keeps you alive and thriving, rhythm of your life
• My Blessing – Gratitude wrapped in affection, thankful every day
• Sweet Angel – Double sweetness for double the feels, heavenly squared
• My Prince – Your personal fairy tale hero, castle optional
• True Love – Classic Disney-level romance, kiss-that-breaks-the-curse energy
• My Dear – Timeless British elegance, sophisticated simplicity
• Precious Love – Emphasizes how much you cherish him, double emphasis
• My Beloved – Formal yet deeply romantic, ceremony-worthy
• Sweet Soul – For someone with a genuinely beautiful spirit that radiates outward

If you’re looking for more romantic inspiration, check out our guide to names that mean love for even deeper meaning.

Cute & Playful Nicknames

Now we’re getting into the fun territory—those adorable, giggly names that make both of you smile every time you use them. These work perfectly for couples who don’t take themselves too seriously and love to keep things lighthearted.

• Boo – Hip-hop culture meets modern romance, effortlessly cool
• Cuddle Bug – For the guy who genuinely loves physical affection and snuggle sessions
• Muffin – Soft, sweet, and irresistibly adorable, fresh-baked love
• Pumpkin – Fall vibes year-round, harvest sweetness and spice
• Snuggle Bear – Perfect for your teddy-bear-like partner who gives the best hugs
• Bubba – Southern charm with playful affection, down-home comfortable
• Cutie Pie – Classic cute with dessert metaphor, never gets old
• Buddy – Friendship foundation with romantic twist, best friend energy
• Champ – Celebrates his wins both big and small, constant encouragement
• Cookie – Sweet treat you absolutely can’t resist, always want more
• Doodle – Quirky and artistic, uniquely yours like a sketch
• Goofball – For the guy who makes you laugh constantly, comedy gold
• Jellybean – Tiny, sweet, comes in your favorite flavor
• Lovebug – Caught the love bug permanently, no cure needed
• Nugget – Small but mighty, utterly adorable compact package
• Peanut – Compact perfection in nickname form, perfectly bite-sized
• Pookie – No explanation needed, just pure concentrated cuteness
• Schnookums – Gloriously cheesy and wonderfully fun, embrace it fully
• Smoochie – All about those kisses, lip-lock ready
• Snookums – Vintage cute that’s making a major comeback
• Squish – Huggable and soft-hearted, stress-ball perfect
• Sweetums – Baby-talk cute for your absolute favorite person
• Teddy – Cuddly and comforting like a childhood teddy bear
• Wookie – Star Wars meets adorable, may the force be with you
• Bub – Short, sweet, incredibly easy to say
• Bunny – Soft, cuddly, hoppily happy energy
• Button – Cute as a button, twice as sweet
• Cupcake – Frosted with love and sprinkled with joy
• Duckie – Adorably quirky, splashes of fun
• Fuzzy – Warm, soft, cozy vibes like flannel
• Giggles – For the guy who brings constant infectious joy
• Hunny Bunny – Double the cuteness, double the fun
• Love Muffin – Bakery sweet meets romantic warm
• Monkey – Playful, energetic, swing-from-the-trees fun
• Noodle – Silly, flexible, goes with everything perfectly
• Peaches – Southern sweet with juicy personality
• Pudding – Smooth, sweet, comfort personified
• Snickers – Satisfies your sweet tooth and funny bone simultaneously
• Sparkles – He makes your entire world shimmer
• Squeaky – Adorably noisy in the absolute best way
• Sunshine Boy – Boyish charm meets bright positive energy
• Sweetpea – Garden-fresh sweetness, spring eternal
• Tater Tot – Small, crispy, universally beloved
• Wiggles – Can’t sit still, full of boundless energy
• Bambi – Wide-eyed innocence and grace
• Bumblebee – Buzzing with energy and sweetness
• Butterball – Thanksgiving warm, perfectly round
• Dimples – Celebrating those adorable facial features
• Marshmallow – Soft on the outside, sweet throughout
• Pickle – Quirky, tangy, one-of-a-kind flavor profile

For more adorable inspiration, explore our collection of cute nicknames for guys.

Cool & Confident Nicknames

These names pack a punch—strong, masculine options that boost his ego while showing your appreciation for his confident side. Perfect for the guy who exudes natural charisma.

• Ace – Number one at everything he does, top of the deck
• Boss – Leadership vibes with sexy confidence, in charge energy
• Captain – He’s steering your relationship ship through smooth and stormy waters
• Chief – In charge and commanding respect, natural authority
• Champ – Always winning at the game of life
• Dude – Casual cool with relationship warmth, laid-back perfect
• Handsome – Straightforward appreciation of his good looks, no games
• Hero – Your personal superhero in everyday life, cape invisible
• Hot Stuff – Confidence meets raw attraction, temperature rising
• Hunk – Classic masculine appeal, movie-star quality
• King – Royalty treatment he absolutely deserves, throne ready
• Legend – Epic status in your eyes, story-worthy
• Lover – Confident in his romantic prowess, knows what he’s doing
• Maverick – Independent spirit with rebel heart, plays by own rules
• Mister – Respectful with a twist of playfulness, formal-casual blend
• Rockstar – He’s your personal celebrity, stage presence included
• Stud – Classic masculine confidence, breeding stock quality
• Tiger – Fierce and powerful, king of the jungle
• Big Guy – Physical presence and protective nature
• Cowboy – Rugged individualist with old-school charm
• Stallion – Strong, powerful, and undeniably attractive
• Superman – Superhero strength with Clark Kent sweetness
• Thor – God-level strength and worthiness
• Beast – Powerful and protective, beauty’s perfect match
• Gladiator – Fighter spirit and warrior heart
• Hercules – Mythological strength and heroic deeds
• Lion – King of your personal kingdom, fierce protector
• Major – Military precision and commanding presence
• Rambo – Action hero toughness with survival skills
• Samurai – Warrior discipline and honor code
• Spartan – Ultimate warrior mentality and strength
• Titan – Larger-than-life presence and power
• Viking – Norse warrior strength and exploration spirit
• Wolf – Pack leader with loyal heart
• Zeus – King of the gods, lightning power
• Alpha – Pack leader energy, dominant presence
• Badass – Tough exterior with no apologies
• Big Daddy – Protective provider vibes, authority figure
• General – Military strategy and leadership skills
• Gunner – Sharp shooter precision in everything
• Hammer – Strong impact, gets things done
• Hulk – Incredible strength when needed most
• Jock – Athletic prowess and competitive spirit
• Knight – Chivalrous protector in shining armor
• Muscle – Physical strength and gym dedication
• Ranger – Outdoorsman skills and survival instincts
• Sergeant – Disciplined and reliable, follows through
• Slick – Smooth operator with effortless style
• Soldier – Dedicated fighter for what matters
• Tank – Unstoppable force and solid build

Pair these with our badass nicknames collection for couple name inspiration.

Funny & Quirky Nicknames

Laughter is the foundation of great relationships, right? These hilarious options celebrate his quirks, your inside jokes, and the ridiculous moments that make your love story uniquely yours.

• Snack – Because he’s looking like a whole meal
• Burrito – Wrapped up in your love, warm and filling
• Wifi – Can’t live without connection to him
• Google – He has all the answers you need
• Netflix – Binge-worthy and always entertaining
• Bluetooth – Always trying to connect with you
• Chapstick – You’re lost without him, constant necessity
• Coffee – Can’t function without him in the morning
• Remote – He’s got all the control
• Charger – Gives you energy when you’re running low
• Snooze Button – Five more minutes is never enough
• Pillow – Soft landing and ultimate comfort
• Blanket – Warmth and security wrapped in one
• Thermostat – Always adjusting to keep things perfect
• GPS – Keeps you from getting lost in life
• Pizza – Perfect any time, day or night
• Taco – Tuesday favorite every day of the week
• Bacon – Makes everything better just by existing
• Cheese – Gloriously cheesy and you love it
• Pickle – Acquired taste but totally worth it
• Nacho – Nacho average guy, deliciously unique
• Waffle – Sweet squares with syrupy goodness
• Donut – Hole-y perfect, sweet ring of joy
• Bagel – Well-rounded with everything on it
• Pretzel – Twisted but perfectly salty
• Jellyroll – Sweet filling in every way
• Dumpling – Perfectly pocket-sized deliciousness
• Biscuit – Southern comfort and buttery smooth
• Croissant – Flaky layers of golden perfection
• Meatball – Hearty, filling, Italian-approved
• Chicken Nugget – Crispy outside, tender inside
• Hot Dog – Classic American favorite
• Sushi Roll – Raw talent wrapped beautifully
• Cupcake – Individual serving of sweetness
• Brownie – Rich, chocolatey, slightly gooey
• Pancake – Fluffy morning perfection
• French Fry – Crispy, salty, addictive snack
• Popcorn – Pops with excitement and fun
• Gummy Bear – Chewy, sweet, comes in colors
• Popsicle – Cool treat on hot days
• Cinnamon Roll – Swirled sweetness, too good for this world
• Apple Pie – Classic comfort, American sweetheart
• Cookie Dough – Sweet and slightly dangerous raw
• Churro – Sugary spiral of fried perfection
• Boba – Sweet drink with surprising pearls
• Cheese Puff – Light, airy, can’t eat just one
• Gingerbread – Spicy sweet during holidays
• Honey Bun – Sticky sweet glazed goodness
• Ice Cream – Cold exterior, sweet inside
• Jello – Jiggly fun in every bite

Check out our funny nicknames for friends for even more comedic inspiration.

Pop Culture & Fandom Nicknames

For couples who bond over movies, shows, games, and music—these references will speak directly to your shared passions and nerdy hearts.

• Baby Yoda – Adorable and everyone wants to protect him
• Captain America – Heroic values and shield-worthy protection
• Iron Man – Genius billionaire playboy philanthropist energy
• Spider-Man – Friendly neighborhood boyfriend
• Batman – Dark knight who’s got your back
• Wolverine – Rough exterior, loyal heart underneath
• Deadpool – Hilarious chaos with hidden depth
• Harry Potter – Chosen one with magical qualities
• Ron Weasley – Loyal best friend turned lover
• Draco – Misunderstood bad boy with redemption
• Jon Snow – Knows nothing but knows you’re everything
• Tyrion – Drinks and knows things, sharp wit
• Aragorn – Ranger king who waited for his queen
• Frodo – Brave hobbit on epic journey
• Han Solo – Scruffy-looking nerf herder you love
• Luke Skywalker – Farm boy turned hero
• Anakin – Passionate intensity for better or worse
• Obi-Wan – High ground of relationship wisdom
• Grogu – Force-sensitive cuteness overload
• Mando – This is the way he shows love
• Mario – Always rescuing his princess
• Link – Silent hero on grand adventure
• Sonic – Gotta go fast energy
• Pikachu – Electric personality, shockingly cute
• Ash – Pokemon master of your heart
• Goku – Power levels over 9000
• Naruto – Believes it and never gives up
• Luffy – Stretchy humor and pirate dreams
• Edward – Sparkles in sunlight, vampire devotion
• Jacob – Warm werewolf loyalty
• Christian Grey – Fifty shades of complicated
• Mr. Darcy – Pride aside, prejudice overcome
• Romeo – Classic lover boy reference
• Jack – Titanic-level sacrifice and door debates
• Noah – Notebook-worthy dedication
• Peeta – Baker boy with artist’s soul
• Gale – Hunting partner and rebel ally
• Four – Divergent choice, brave heart
• Katniss – Wait, that’s for girls, but archer energy
• Beast – Tale as old as time transformation
• Aladdin – Diamond in the rough, magic carpet rides
• Prince Eric – Mermaid dreamer and sea lover
• Flynn Rider – Smolder perfected, thief of hearts
• Kristoff – Ice harvester with warm heart
• Simba – Lion king of your pride
• Tarzan – Jungle man, wild heart
• Hercules – Zero to hero journey complete
• Sherlock – Deductive reasoning and brilliant mind
• Watson – Loyal companion through mysteries
• Ross – Paleontology nerd, we were on a break

Explore anime usernames or gaming usernames for more fandom inspiration.

Affectionate Spanish Nicknames

Spanish pet names bring extra passion and romance to your vocabulary—these roll off the tongue beautifully and add international flair.

• Papi – Daddy energy with Latin heat
• Guapo – Handsome and he knows it
• Cariño – Darling with Spanish warmth
• Corazón – Heart, literally and figuratively
• Querido – Beloved with deep affection
• Tesoro – Treasure you’ve discovered
• Cielo – Sky or heaven, limitless
• Amor – Love in its purest form
• Precioso – Precious and valuable
• Hermoso – Beautiful inside and out
• Papito – Little daddy, affectionate diminutive
• Chulo – Cute with swagger
• Lindo – Pretty boy, handsome
• Bebé – Baby in Spanish sweetness
• Principe – Prince of your kingdom
• Rey – King with royal treatment
• Sol – Sun that lights your day
• Estrella – Star in your sky
• Dulce – Sweet like candy
• Bombón – Chocolate candy, sweet treat

Unique & Creative Nicknames

These stand out from the crowd—original options you won’t hear everyone else using, perfect for couples who march to their own beat.

• Moonbeam – Night-sky magic and gentle light
• Stardust – Cosmic magic sprinkled on earth
• Thunder – Powerful presence and loud impact
• Phoenix – Rising from ashes, transformation
• Maverick – Independent rule-breaker
• Cipher – Mystery you’re still decoding
• Cosmo – Universe contained in one person
• Echo – Reverberating presence in your life
• Jinx – Lucky charm despite the name
• Kodiak – Bear-sized strength and warmth
• Lynx – Sharp-eyed and graceful
• Nomad – Wanderer who found home in you
• Orion – Hunter constellation in your night sky
• Quasar – Brightest object in your universe
• Rogue – Charming rebel without cause
• Sage – Wise beyond his years
• Talon – Sharp and protective
• Umbra – Shadow that’s always with you
• Vortex – Swirling energy you can’t escape
• Wilder – Untamed spirit and free heart
• Xerxes – Ancient king power
• Yeti – Mythical creature finally found
• Zephyr – Gentle west wind carrying love
• Axiom – Self-evident truth you believe in
• Blaze – Fire that warms without burning
• Cascade – Waterfall of continuous affection
• Drifter – Wanderer who chose to stay
• Ember – Glowing warmth that never dies
• Falcon – Soaring freedom and sharp vision
• Glacier – Slow-moving but powerful force

Why Nicknames Matter More Than You Think

Before we dive into the lists, let’s talk about why this whole nickname thing is actually important. Social media analysis from 2025 shows that TikTok videos featuring “what I call my boyfriend” content have generated over 4.2 billion views, making nickname culture a massive digital trend. But this isn’t just internet fluff—it’s rooted in genuine human connection.

Psychologists note that pet names create intimacy and belonging in relationships. They’re like a secret language between just the two of you, reinforcing that special bond you share. Historically, this tradition goes way back—Romans used “mea vita” (my life), while Victorian couples favored elaborate terms like “dearest treasure.”

Modern couples are blending this romantic tradition with pop culture references, inside jokes, and personalized humor that makes each nickname uniquely meaningful.

The best part? Nicknames evolve as your relationship does. What starts as “that guy from the gym” becomes “Gym Crush” becomes “My Person” becomes “Future Husband” becomes “Snore Symphony Conductor” after you move in together. Each phase deserves its own perfect name.

How to Choose the Perfect Nickname for Your Guy

Alright, so you’ve got 300+ options swimming around in your head. How do you actually pick one? Here are some practical tips from someone who’s been through the nickname evolution.

Consider his personality first. Is he more of a “Sunshine” or a “Boss”? A sweet, romantic guy might appreciate “Honey” more than “Tank,” while your gym-obsessed partner might prefer “Hulk” to “Cupcake.” Pay attention to how he sees himself and what makes him light up.

Think about your relationship dynamic. Are you playful and constantly joking around? Funny nicknames like “Burrito” or “Wifi” might be your speed. More serious and romantic? Stick with classics like “My Love” or “Darling.” Your nickname should reflect the unique energy between you two.

Test it out loud before committing. Some names look cute written down but feel awkward to actually say. Whisper it to yourself a few times. Does it flow naturally? Can you imagine saying it in front of friends without cringing? Your comfort level matters.

Pay attention to his reaction. The first time you try out a new nickname, watch his face. Does he smile? Blush? Laugh? Or does he look confused or uncomfortable? His response tells you everything. The right nickname will make him feel loved, not embarrassed.

Let it evolve naturally. Don’t force a nickname that doesn’t feel right. Sometimes the perfect name emerges from an inside joke, a random moment, or something he does that’s uniquely him. My partner became “Captain Whiskers” after growing a questionable mustache during quarantine, and somehow it stuck even after he shaved it.

Keep it appropriate for different settings. “Hot Stuff” works great at home but maybe not at his office holiday party. Have a couple of nicknames in your rotation—one for private moments and one for public settings. Think of it like having casual and formal outfits.

For more naming inspiration across different categories, browse through our extensive collection of unique usernames and creative usernames.

The Psychology Behind Pet Names

Since we’re getting deep here, let’s talk about why nicknames actually matter beyond just being cute. Research from relationship psychologists shows that couples who create their own private language—including special nicknames—report feeling more connected and understood by their partners.

These little terms of endearment serve as emotional anchors. When he hears you call him “Sunshine,” his brain associates that word with your affection, creating positive neural pathways. Over time, the nickname itself becomes a shorthand for “I love you,” “I see you,” and “You’re special to me.”

Interestingly, the most successful relationship nicknames share some common characteristics: they’re easy to say, they make both partners smile, and they carry meaning that’s specific to your relationship. Generic terms work fine, but nicknames born from shared experiences or personal quirks create even stronger bonds.

There’s also something playful about using nicknames that keeps relationships feeling fresh. It’s a small way of not taking yourselves too seriously, of maintaining that spark of fun even when life gets heavy with responsibilities and routines.

Making It Stick: Tips for Introducing a New Nickname

So you’ve found the perfect nickname in this list. Now what? Here’s how to introduce it without making things weird.

Start casually. Drop it into conversation naturally rather than making a big announcement. Text him “Good morning, Sunshine” instead of saying “I’ve decided your new nickname is Sunshine.” Let it feel organic.

Use it consistently but not obsessively. Mix the nickname in with his regular name. You don’t want to overdo it to the point where it loses meaning or starts feeling forced.

Be prepared to pivot. If the first nickname doesn’t land, don’t stress about it. Try another one. Sometimes you need to test-drive a few before finding the perfect fit. My current favorite (“Adventure Buddy”) was actually my third attempt.

Explain the meaning if there is one. If you’re calling him “Phoenix” because he helped you through a tough time when you both rose from the ashes, share that context. Meaningful nicknames mean more when he understands the why behind them.

Let him nickname you too. This works best when it’s reciprocal. If you’re calling him sweet names, encourage him to do the same for you. It creates that private language we talked about earlier.

You might also enjoy our guides to nicknames for boyfriend and sweet nicknames for boyfriend for even more relationship inspiration.

The Final Word on Nicknames

Here’s what I’ve learned after years of experimenting with pet names: the right nickname feels effortless. It makes you both smile. It captures something real about your connection. Whether you choose “Honey” or “Hot Stuff,” “Baby” or “Badass,” what matters is that it comes from a genuine place of affection.

The beauty of having 300 options is that you’re not limited to just one. Relationships are complex, multifaceted things. Your partner can be your “Hero” when he helps you through a crisis, your “Goofball” when he’s making you laugh, and your “Sweetheart” when you’re cuddled up on the couch. Different moments call for different names.

Don’t overthink it. Trust your instincts. If a nickname makes your heart happy when you think about saying it, chances are it’s going to make his heart happy when he hears it. That’s really what all of this comes down to—finding small, consistent ways to show the person you love that they’re special, valued, and irreplaceable in your life.

And remember, the evolution of nicknames tells your love story. From tentative first-date names to confident long-term relationship titles, each phase deserves celebration. So bookmark this list, come back when you need inspiration, and never stop finding new ways to make him smile with that perfect pet name.

What nickname are you going to try first? I’m betting you’ve already got three favorites circled in your mind. Trust that instinct, send that text, and watch his face light up. That’s the real magic of a perfect nickname—it’s not just about the word itself, but about the love and thought behind it.

For more inspiration on names that carry special meanings, explore our collections of names that mean love, names that mean strength, and names that mean beautiful. And if you’re looking for couple-themed content, don’t miss our couple usernames and matching usernames guides.

Now go forth and nickname with confidence. Your guy is lucky to have someone who cares enough to find the perfect name that celebrates exactly who he is to you. That’s love, friends. Sweet, silly, serious, sexy love—all wrapped up in whatever nickname makes your heart sing.