TNG Cast Gave Michael Dorn's Worf Two Hilarious Nicknames

Star Trek primarily presents a utopian world, at least on Earth. To achieve even grander solidarity, the Federation sends crews throughout the galaxy in an attempt to bring peace to other planets. However, things can still get hostile out there, with it being clear racism (or speciesism, we suppose) still runs rampant. And Jonathan Frakes' nickname for Worf — Turtlehead — is technically a slur in the Star Trek franchise. 

The term comes up in the 1991 Star Trek novel, "A Flag Full of Stars," where a student disrespects a Klingon teacher with the slur. Additionally, "Turtlehead" comes up again on an episode of "Star Trek: Voyager." The scene in question arises when the Vulcan Tuvok (Tim Russ) discusses the rage that lies within B'Elanna (Roxann Dawson), who's half-Klingon and half-human. Tuvok refers to her as "Ms. Turtlehead," which draws her ire. It's difficult to ascertain a timeline on whether the term originated in one of the Star Trek projects or if Frakes came up with it first, with word reaching other sources. But it's certainly not a nice thing to say to a Klingon in any regard. 

As for Worfland, that one seems to still be mostly safe to say, as it more describes a feeling or situation. Throughout his time in the franchise, Worf has earned ample respect, even rising to the rank of Captain on "Picard." Michael Dorn has said he's game for a Worf spin-off, and if that ever comes to fruition, characters would do well not to make him angry with any silly names.