I was planning to open this blog post with a quoted definition of the term “geek,” but going by the entries on Wikipedia it seems that there is no agreed upon definition; some definitions are complimentary, many are not. So, instead, I will explain what we mean by geek when we use the term in the TechRepublic Geek Gift Guide.

The 2011 TechRepublic Geek Gift Guide is currently available in a free downloadable PDF. Also check out the 2011 TechRepublic Geek Gift Guide in gallery format.

At TechRepublic, geek is used as a term of endearment and admiration. A geek is immersed in information technology. They live it every single day. Technology frames their perspective of everything and, by their very nature, geeks are interested in everything tech. Geeks live to process and analyze information; it is how they interact with the world – whether it is at work or at play.

For the most part, TechRepublic focuses on the “at work” part of information technology, but every year we also take a close look at the “at play” part of a geek’s life with the TechRepublic Geek Gift Guide. (If you prefer, you can view the 2011 TechRepublic Geek Gift Guide in gallery format.) In the guide you will find reviews and analysis of the latest leisure activity trends, gadgets, and toys. However, the reviews are conducted from a skewed perspective a true dyed-in-the-wool technology geek will appreciate.

This skewed perspective is wholeheartedly embraced by TechRepublic. It is what we live for. When you read the definition of “geek” above, know that I am describing myself, and that I am describing the staff of TechRepublic. It is the reason we do cracking opens, it is the reason our gift reviews focus on the “coolness” of the tech and not the popularity of a particular hot toy.

If you have a tech-geek on your holiday shopping list, the 2011 TechRepublic Geek Gift Guide is a great place to start your research. For, as you know or will soon find out, it can be difficult to shop for someone if they possess a geek’s sensibilities. For example, do you know someone who would want a Star Trek uniform bath robe? Did you even know there was such a thing? Or perhaps you have someone on your list that is looking to build a new multimedia room – do you think they’d be interested in the latest wireless HDMI technology?

The 2011 TechRepublic Geek Gift Guide can help you answer these questions and provide you with a general road map of where you can go to find geek-friendly gifts for that special person on your list. Arm yourself with the best tools you can; you will be glad you did.

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