The term “Waifu” is a loan word for wife in English. The term is generally used by the Otaku circle to refer to one’s favorite female 2D character.
Waifu Origins
The term was first used in Azumanga Daioh when a picture of Kimura-sensei’s wife was discovered and he explains that the woman in the picture is “Mai waifu”. The term “Waifu” and “Mai Waifu” was then picked up in the Otaku circle, especially in the English speaking Weeaboo, to refer to one’s favorite female character.
Evolution
As the term became more and more of a common term, a variety of new terms associated with the term became more prominent. Asides from Dakimakura (Giant pillows generally used for hugging featuring Anime character bodies), a phenomenon known as “Dinner with Waifu” (嫁との晩餐) where Otaku creates a romantic date alone at home with their 2D waifu, also became a growing trend.
Controversies
The internet was made to share knowledge, but that isn’t really what it’s used for. As people express their love to their waifu online, an equal amount of people find joy in hating people’s love. From “Reaju” (coming soon) not understanding the power of waifu to other otaku criticizing your choice of waifu, the term waifu has also sparked its fair share of controversies.
Despite all sorts of criticisms, each otaku will still stand by their waifu.
Do you have a Waifu? Comment below who is the best waifu and what term do you want to see explained next!
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