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Otaku Terms Dictionary

From anime lingo and internet slang to modern Japanese expressions. Explore the words you'll encounter in otaku culture and everyday Japan.

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2 terms

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Meroi

メロい(めろい)

Meroi (メロい) is a Japanese adjective describing someone or something so irresistibly attractive that it makes you completely smitten, weak in the knees. It is most commonly used when a fan’s oshi (favorite idol, performer, character, etc.) does something that overwhelms them with lovestruck feelings. It is not limited to romantic contexts, though; stunning visuals or performances can be meroi too. In 2024, meroi was selected for Sanseido’s “New Words of the Year,” signaling its growing recognition beyond otaku circles and youth slang.

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Riako

リアコ(りあこ)

Riako is short for "riaru ni koi shiteru" (lit. really in love). It refers to having genuine romantic feelings for someone you can normally only have a fan relationship with, such as idols, actors, voice actors, or anime characters, or to someone in that vein. Unlike simply cheering for an oshi (favorite), riako involves romantic feelings intense enough to desire a real relationship or marriage. Many people self-identify as riako after becoming aware of their own feelings. Connection to Gachikoi "Gachikoi" is a closely related term. Riako became established among female fans, while gachikoi is sometimes considered more associated with male fans, though both are now used regardless of gender. There is virtually no difference in meaning; it comes down to personal preference or community conventions.

Otaku Terms Dictionary

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Meroi

Riako

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