A negative Japanese word meaning 'nerd,' which anime-lovers have embraced and turned into a positive word defining a person who likes anime.
However, anime-lovers sometimes tend to cross the line, falling deeply into otaku characteristics themselves.
However, anime-lovers sometimes tend to cross the line, falling deeply into otaku characteristics themselves.
1. That kid's such an otaku; all he ever talks about is Dragon Ball Z and video games.
2. Dude, have you seen Naruto? Oh I love anime! I'm a total anime otaku! Kawaii!
2. Dude, have you seen Naruto? Oh I love anime! I'm a total anime otaku! Kawaii!
by Chii April 30, 2004
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.
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.
by Thriller March 24, 2006
In Japan the word otaku is used to refer to someone who is extremely obsessed with something. Americans have adopted it to refer to anyone in their culture who is obessesed with the Japanese culture. Americans do not use it "incorrectly" as many people claim, they have just re-defined the word.
That Mallory girl is such an otaku... She watches anime, has been to more cosplay conventions then I can count, and can read, write, and speak Japanese!
by Wonderful Aishas September 5, 2005
this word was originally used in japan to describe someone who enjoys anime and manga. the term later became derogatory when a japanese news station used it to describe a serial killer who had been a hermit and was obsessed with anime, manga, and doujn. When it crossed the pacific to America, otaku became a word popularly used to describe anime-con goers. the Japanese, who are always quick to pick up on American fads, soon used the phrase to describe a cool "geek chic" type of person, often found in the Akihabara district of Tokyo.
by objectiveobserver July 11, 2008
Someone with an unhealthy obsession for something. i.e. anime, cars, soap operas...
not necessarily anime but usually associated with it
not necessarily anime but usually associated with it
by Ravyius November 9, 2003
1. Japanese for "nerd."
2. A big anime fan. Unfortunately, the name has been disgraced thanks to the large majority of otakus being 240 lb, 30-year-old white men who don't have a life.
2. A big anime fan. Unfortunately, the name has been disgraced thanks to the large majority of otakus being 240 lb, 30-year-old white men who don't have a life.
by dj gs68 July 8, 2003
Otaku are smelly, furry, plump creatures that are usually found in their natural habitats: their own mother's basements or in their dark rooms where the only sources of light are the bright glow of their computers or television
by Amos Nusheg February 20, 2008