I have seen the word "git" used frequently in postings by residents of the U.K., and I would like an explanation...

1. How do you pronounce it? Soft "g" or hard "g"?

2. What is its derivation? Is it an abbreviation?

3. What does it mean? I get the general meaning, as in "stupid git"...it's obviously pejorative, but I'd like a little more detailed info on that.

4. Is it a high class or low class word...or both?

Thanks awfully, chaps!

- LH