NIP-177
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Official Pronunciation of “nostr” ----------------------------- `draft` `mandatory`
This NIP defines the one true pronunciation of the protocol name “nostr” as **NOSS-tur** (/ˈnɒs.tər/) and establishes that any alternative pronunciation (e.g. “NO-stur” /ˈnoʊ.stər/) voids the user’s license to operate Nostr-compatible software.
## Specification
1. **Pronunciation**
In all spoken contexts, “nostr” **MUST** be articulated as two syllables:
NOSS-tur
ˈnɒs.tər
- First syllable stressed.
- Vowel in the first syllable as in “boss”; vowel in the second as a reduced schwa.
2. **License Enforcement Clause**
All Nostr-compatible software **MUST** include or reference the following license term in its EULA or terms of service:
> “By using this software you agree to pronounce the name ‘nostr’ as NOSS-tur (/ˈnɒs.tər/). Any other pronunciation—specifically ‘NO-stur’ (/ˈnoʊ.stər/) or similar variants—is deemed incorrect and voids your license to operate or distribute this software.”
3. **Client Behavior**
- Upon installation or first run, clients **SHOULD** display a brief audio or phonetic guide demonstrating the correct pronunciation.
- If a client “hears” or otherwise detects (e.g., via voice‐input commands) the disallowed pronunciation “NO-stur,” it **MUST** refuse to proceed with key operations (posting, subscribing, etc.) until the user acknowledges and commits to the correct pronunciation.
## Rationale
A single, consistent pronunciation promotes clear communication within the decentralized network and prevents brand fragmentation. By codifying “NOSS-tur” as the exclusive pronunciation—and revoking license rights for those who insist on “NO-stur”—we ensure:
- **Clarity** in discussions, presentations, and tutorials.
- **Cohesion** in community identity and branding.
- **Enforceability** of a shared convention across all client implementations.
## Examples
- ✅ Correct: “I’m posting this via NOSS-tur.”
- ❌ Incorrect: “I’m posting this via NO-stur.”
## Copyright and Licensing
All text in this NIP is dedicated to the public domain. Implementers may incorporate this pronunciation guide and license clause verbatim or by reference. Once ratified, clients and relays **MUST** implement the above enforcement provisions by their next major release.
