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Why Does Jim Call McCoy Bones?

Published in Star Trek Nicknames 3 mins read

Captain Jim Kirk calls Dr. Leonard McCoy "Bones" as an affectionate, yet historically rooted, reference to the 19th-century slang term "Sawbones," which was commonly used for doctors.

The Historical Roots of "Bones"

The nickname "Bones" given to Dr. McCoy by Captain Kirk is a direct nod to a historical colloquialism. In the 19th century, particularly during and after the American Civil War, doctors were often referred to as "Sawbones." This term, while perhaps sounding crude today, was common slang for medical practitioners, especially those involved in surgery, a field that frequently dealt with bones.

The choice of "Bones" for McCoy is thus a clever and subtle way to connect the advanced medical profession of the 23rd century with its more rudimentary, yet equally vital, predecessors. It encapsulates the essence of a doctor's work, often involving the physical structure of the body.

Why Kirk Used the Nickname

The use of "Bones" by Captain Kirk for his chief medical officer highlights several aspects of their dynamic and the show's approach to characterization:

  • Informality and Trust: The nickname signifies a deep level of familiarity and trust between Kirk and McCoy. It's a personal touch that underscores their close friendship and partnership, even amidst the rigid structure of Starfleet.
  • Character Contrast: McCoy often expresses his discomfort with the more extreme aspects of space exploration, frequently uttering phrases like "I'm a doctor, not a..." This nickname, linking him to the gritty, physical side of medicine, ironically contrasts with his sometimes exasperated and empathetic nature.
  • Evokes Medical Profession: Despite the futuristic setting, the nickname grounds McCoy's role in the tangible reality of the medical profession. It's a constant reminder of his primary duty: to deal with life, death, injury, and the very physical essence of living beings.

Understanding the Connection: Sawbones to Bones

To fully grasp the origin of the nickname, it's helpful to compare the two terms:

Term Original Meaning/Context Application in Star Trek
Sawbones 19th-century slang for doctors, particularly surgeons. Common during the American Civil War era due to prevalent amputations and bone-related surgeries. This historical term served as the direct inspiration for Captain Kirk's affectionate, yet fitting, nickname for Dr. Leonard McCoy.
Bones Captain Kirk's iconic nickname for Dr. Leonard McCoy in Star Trek: The Original Series. It's a modern, abbreviated version of "Sawbones," retaining the historical connection while becoming an intimate and recognizable identifier for the ship's doctor.

This connection adds a layer of depth to the character relationships and serves as a subtle homage to medical history, making "Bones" a fitting and memorable moniker for the chief medical officer of the USS Enterprise.