gipper
UK[ˈɡɪpə]US[ˈɡɪpər]
n
A person who is full of spirit, enthusiasm, or competitive drive, especially in a sports context.
n
(Informal, chiefly US) A supporter or player for the University of Notre Dame, derived from the nickname of former player George Gipp.
Etymology
The word "gipper" is an eponym, originating entirely from the name of George "The Gipper" Gipp, a legendary American football player for the University of Notre Dame (1917-1920). His iconic status was cemented posthumously by the 1940 film "Knute Rockne, All American," where his deathbed plea to "win one for the Gipper" became a national catchphrase. This transformed his nickname from a personal identifier into a common noun symbolizing spirited inspiration. Consequently, "gipper" evolved to denote not just someone associated with Notre Dame, but any individual exemplifying remarkable grit and motivational zeal.
Analysis
This is a proper noun converted into a common noun. It is derived from the surname "Gipp" with the addition of the agent noun suffix "-er". The surname "Gipp" is of uncertain English origin, possibly a variant of "Gibbs" or related to "gipe," an old word for a vulture.
Examples
The coach gave a fiery speech, urging his team to play like true gippers.
As a lifelong Notre Dame fan, he proudly considers himself a gipper.
She may be small, but on the court she's a real gipper, never giving up on a play.