The lesser form of a name. I have noticed an interesting parallel between people being annoyed by people using a diminutive form of their name, like Chrisy instead of Christine, and diminutive names for groups. For example though a few people get upset by even their family using the familiar diminutive, most only get upset when strangers presume they can use it. Likewise when a group name like Yank or Fag is used by a member of the group in question it is generally accepted, though not by all.
There appears to be a general perception by people that a word is acceptable or not based upon the familiarity of the person using it. I also find it interesting to note how many insults directed at groups are diminutive forms for some name of the group.
I would seriously like to hear from anyone that knows of any formal research into this area. /msg me or beter yet check out my user node for my ICQ number.