This commentary is written in response to the recent article from Herring et al., discussing the eradication of the offensive term "retardation" from gene nomenclature. We discuss the work of the HUGO (Human Genome Organisation) Gene Nomenclature Committee (HGNC) and outline the steps already taken to remove this term from our gene names. We also highlight the latest nomenclature changes made as a result of discussions with the authors and agreement with the European Fragile X Network.