Why is Dick short for Richard?

The nickname "Dick" for Richard is the result of a series of changes in language and the practice of rhyming nicknames that dates back to the Middle Ages. Originally, the name Richard was shortened to "Rich" or "Rick" as a common nickname. Over time, it was a popular practice to create rhyming versions of these nicknames, so "Rick" led to "Dick," and "Rich" led to "Hitch." While "Hitch" has not persisted, "Dick" has remained as a nickname for Richard.