Why is there no apostrophe in Hells Angels?
The Hells Angels Motorcycle Club (HAMC) is a notorious international outlaw motorcycle club known for its distinctive name, “Hells Angels.” One peculiar aspect of the club’s name is the absence of an apostrophe between “Hell” and “s.” This deliberate omission has sparked curiosity and raised questions about the correct placement of the apostrophe. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind the absence of an apostrophe in “Hells Angels.”
Official Name
The motorcycle club is officially known as the “Hells Angels Motorcycle Club” (HAMC). This name is registered and recognized by the club and its members. The absence of an apostrophe is an intentional choice made by the club as part of their official name.
Differentiating from Winged Demons
One reason for the absence of an apostrophe in “Hells Angels” is to distinguish the motorcycle club from the concept of winged demons associated with the mythical underworld. If the club were to use the possessive form with an apostrophe, it would be written as “Hell’s Angels,” which could be interpreted as referring to angels belonging to Hell. By omitting the apostrophe, the club avoids this association and creates a distinct identity.
Tattooed Name
Members of the Hells Angels often proudly display their affiliation by getting the name “Hells Angels” tattooed on their bodies. It is common for these tattoos to lack an apostrophe, consistent with the club’s official name. This further reinforces the deliberate choice to exclude the apostrophe from the name.
Club’s Explanation
According to the Hells Angels’ website, the club is aware that there is an apostrophe missing in “Hell’s Angels,” but they assert that it is the readers who miss it. They intentionally choose not to include the apostrophe in their name, emphasizing their unique style and distinctive identity.
In conclusion, the absence of an apostrophe in “Hells Angels” is a deliberate affectation chosen by the club as part of their official name. It distinguishes the motorcycle club from the concept of winged demons and reinforces their distinct identity. Members proudly display the name “Hells Angels” in tattoos without an apostrophe. The club’s deliberate choice to omit the apostrophe is explained on their website, where they state that it is the readers who miss it. By understanding the club’s official name and their reasons for the absence of an apostrophe, we can appreciate this unique aspect of the Hells Angels Motorcycle Club.
Sources:
- “Where’s the correct place to put an apostrophe in the word ‘Hells Angels’? – Quora.” (source URL: https://www.quora.com/Wheres-the-correct-place-to-put-an-apostrophe-in-the-word-Hells-Angels)
- “Standing corrected: Why is there no apostrophe in ‘Hells Angels’? | Living Archives on Eugenics Blog.” (source URL: https://whatsortsofpeople.wordpress.com/2008/07/08/standing-corrected-why-is-there-no-apostrophe-in-hells-angels/)
- “Hells Angels – Wikipedia.” (source URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hells_Angels)
FAQs
Why is there no apostrophe in Hells Angels?
What is the official name of the motorcycle club?
The official name of the motorcycle club is the “Hells Angels Motorcycle Club” (HAMC).
Why is there no apostrophe in “Hells Angels”?
The absence of an apostrophe in “Hells Angels” is a deliberate choice made by the club as part of their official name.
How does the absence of an apostrophe differentiate the club from winged demons?
The absence of an apostrophe distinguishes the motorcycle club from the concept of winged demons associated with the mythical underworld. It creates a distinct identity for the club.
Do members of the Hells Angels have the name tattooed on their bodies?
Yes, it is common for members of the Hells Angels to have the name “Hells Angels” tattooed on their bodies. These tattoos typically lack an apostrophe, consistent with the club’s official name.
Why does the club intentionally choose not to include the apostrophe?
According to the Hells Angels’ website, the club is aware that there is an apostrophe missing in “Hell’s Angels.” However, they assert that it is the readers who miss it. The intentional exclusion of the apostrophe emphasizes their unique style and distinctive identity.
How does the club explain the absence of the apostrophe?
The club’s website states that they intentionally choose not to include the apostrophe in “Hells Angels.” They assert that it is the readers who miss it, and they embrace this omission as part of their unique branding.
Does the absence of an apostrophe have any legal implications for the club?
The absence of an apostrophe in “Hells Angels” does not have any significant legal implications for the club. It is a stylistic choice rather than a legal requirement.
Are there any other motorcycle clubs or organizations that use a similar naming style?
While the Hells Angels are known for their unique naming style without an apostrophe, there are no other prominent motorcycle clubs or organizations that follow the exact same naming convention. Each club typically has its own distinctive name and branding.