What are the nicknames given to Chopin's Etudes and what significance do they hold in the context of his piano compositions?

Chopin's Etudes are often nicknamed "studies" or "exercises" because they were originally intended to help pianists improve their technical skills. However, these pieces are also highly artistic and musical, transcending their pedagogical purpose. The nicknames highlight the dual nature of the Etudes as both technical exercises and musical masterpieces, showcasing Chopin's ability to combine virtuosity with emotional depth in his piano compositions.