Are you looking to understand the meaning of kuddere? We can help. Read on as we explore the term kuddere to uncover its definition, origin, and more.
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Kevin
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March 1, 2022
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Whether you’re entirely new to the world of anime or a long-time anime fan, there’s no denying that some of the terminology commonly used in anime can be a bit confusing. However, with the current rise of anime sweeping over the nation, learning the jargon is important — especially if you want to stay current on trendy lingo.
Over the years, we’ve seen a number of anime-related terms — such as “ara, ara,” “Baka,” and “waifu” — circulate through our social media feeds, however in recent months, it appears there’s a new word that is gaining widespread popularity: Kuudere.
Interested in learning more? We can help. Read on as we explore the term kuudere to uncover its definition, origin, synonyms, and more. By the end of this guide, you should have a complete understanding of the word kuudere. Are you ready?
Let’s dive in.
What Is the Definition of Kuudere?
The term kuudere can get a little confusing because there are a number of definitions in a number of languages. Worry not, though, as we’ve compiled definitions from a few reputable sources to get to the bottom of its meaning:
- According to YourDictionary.com, kuudere is a noun that describes a character archetype that is considered cold-hearted and indifferent but doesn’t show its true colors.
- In reference to anime and manga, SlangLang.net defines kuudere as a person who is cold, blunt, and cynical, usually showing no emotions to the ones they care for on the outside but are kind on the inside.
- The last definition that we will be comparing comes from the Urban Dictionary, in which kuudere is defined as an anime/manga slang term used to describe a character that is cold, cynical, blunt, and emotionless. Over time, however, the kuudere opens up and gets out of their shell.
Although each of these definitions is slightly different, we can conclude that the Japanese word kuudere is a term that is commonly used in anime and manga to describe a person who seems cold, calm, and emotionless. The kuudere never panics and often remains distant and analytical in stressful situations.
What Is the Origin of the Term Kuudere?
Not to be confused with tsundere, hinedere, dandere, darudere, yandere, or utsudere, the word kuudere (クーデレ) — sometimes written as “Kūdere” or just “Kudere” — is defined as a character who is cool, calm, and collected on the outside, showing very little (such as a small smile) to no emotion.
The “kuu” in the term “kuudere” comes from the word “kuuru,” which is derived from the Japanese pronunciation of the English word “cool” (クール) and “deredere” or “dere-dere” (デレデレ), meaning “to become lovestruck, lovey-dovey, infatuated.”
In Japanese, the term kuuru can mean a number of things. It can insinuate that someone looks chill, calm, or even cold. It can also mean impressive as it does in the English language.
When using kuudere, the kuuru would refer to the composed, calm type — in other words, the type that doesn’t show emotions and stays calm and collected (cool) no matter what.
It’s important to note that the term can sometimes be seen as kūdere instead of kuudere. This, however, is just the same word written with different romaji.
What Are the Synonyms and Antonyms of Kuudere?
To further your understanding of the term kuudere, it can be helpful to learn its synonyms and antonyms. Synonyms are words with the same meaning whereas antonyms are words with the opposite meaning.
The synonyms of kuudere include:
- Aloof
- Cold
- Quiet
- Unemotional
- Stoic
- Apathetic
- Detached
- Impassive
- Mood-swinger
- Indomitable
- Cool
The antonyms of kuudere include:
- Caring
- Concerned
- Emotional
- Interested
- Responsive
- Agitated
- Excited
- Enthusiastic
- Eager
- Passionate
- Lovey-dovey
- Warmth
How Can Kuudere Be Used in a Sentence?
Now that you understand what kuudere means, let’s explore some usage examples:
“Don’t mistake her shyness for sensitivity; she’s a kuudere.”
“The kuudere doesn’t hide their embarrassment simply because the kuudere doesn’t get embarrassed.”
“Kuudere is when the character only occasionally shows their caring side.”
“The princess is the kuudere in that video game.”
“Unlike tsundere characters who seem to tsuntsun (tsun tsun), or turn away in disgust, the kuudere shows no emotion at all.”
“My favorite kuudere character is Asuka Langley Soryu from Neon Genesis Evangelion.”
“Have you ever noticed that the kuudere often speak in a calm monotone and seem unphased by the world around them?”
“Who is the kuudere in Death Note?”
Famous Kuudere Characters
Arguably the most common character archetypes in Japanese fiction and media, the Kuudere can be the main or side character, rival, stock love interest, or antagonist.
Today, the poster child for the Kuudere archetype in Japanese pop culture is Rei Ayanami from the sci-fi show Neon Genesis Evangelion. Other famous Kuudere characters include:
- Kanada Tachibana (Angel Beats)
- Saber (Fate/Stay Night)
- Minami Iwasaki (Lucky Star)
- Shiina (Angel Beats)
- Tomoyo Sakagami (Clannad)
To Recap
The term Kuudere can be defined as a fictional Japanese character archetype that exists in popular Japanese media, like anime, manga, film, and video games.
These characters have expressionless faces with a monotone voice and usually present cold color themes from their hair to their outfit. They don’t show any weakness and have a frosty exterior.
Sometimes, kuuderes are the leaders that keep their offices running. Other times, these folks take the form of stoic, professional assistants to superiors that they love and respect.
We hope this guide has provided you with all of the information you need to fully understand the meaning of kuudere. Feel free to refer back to this guide at any time and check out our website to discover more interesting terms!
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