Whew, at least I wasn't imagining a non-pattern, lol. I have noticed the 'wolf' term used affectionately and also as an insult, but the writer usually conveys clearly in what way it's meant.
I've also read the 'Moony' wolf form/Remus form, name difference. I haven't quite made up my mind on whether Remus is the wolf or whether the wolf is just a like a virus that takes over when the moon is full. I mean when Remus was bitten as a child, then we'd have to ask "What happened to the soul that was Remus the child? Was it replaced by the Dark Creature's soul that is a werewolf and the child is dead, only the memories remaining?" That's why it's easier for me to imagine that Remus is normal with some "viral werewolf" traits that manifest themselves closer to the full moon. Then when the full moon arrives, the virus is in complete control. But that's just me and I'm way OT now, lol