A Japanese slang term synonymous with "geek" that is used to describe people who have a hobby such as video gaming,
anime, model kits, D&D and many others. Outside of
Japan it is used almost exclusively for hobbies related to
Japan, especially
anime.
It is also important to note that many people make false assumptions and stereotypes against otaku. The most common fallacies are that they have no social lives and never get laid. While these are true in some cases, they are mere stereotypes and many otaku get laid on a regular basis. Such statements can be compared with saying that ALL
black people are drug dealers. (It is also important to note that many otaku choose not to use the word in describing themselves due to the negative fallacies)
Another common misconception that has led to much asshatteryis that "otaku" has a set connotation, either positive or negative. This is untrue seeing as there are both practicing otaku who can be considered exempplary citizens as well as those who will never get laid. The words connotation is purely neutral. It describes people with certain hobbies and does not pertain to positive or negative behaviour.
Why these negative fallacies are often cast upon otaku and geeks, I do not know. There are people who can name
useless facts about sports and music that rival the
anime trivia of any otaku who are considered healthy. Furthermore, many otaku spend less time watching
anime than most
Americans spend watching TV. The idea that their social lives suffer from spending too much time on
anime is a pure fallacy. All people have hobbies and interests that occupy their spare time, such as sports, telivision and music. Otaku are the same except their main hobby is
anime. Most still have ample time left over for a healthy social life.
