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hikikomori
What does hikikomori mean?
A person who has withdrawn from society into near-total isolation, often confined to their room for months or years. A recurring, sympathetically explored character type in anime.
"The story follows a hikikomori slowly coaxed back into the world."
Origin
Japanese 引きこもり (hikikomori), 'pulling inward / being confined'.
Frequently asked questions
What is a hikikomori?
A person who has withdrawn into near-total social isolation, often confined to their room for months or years, avoiding society and contact.
How is a hikikomori different from a NEET?
A NEET simply isn't in work or study; a hikikomori is defined by extreme social withdrawal and isolation, which is a psychological and social condition.
Where does the word hikikomori come from?
From Japanese 引きこもり, meaning 'pulling inward' or 'being confined', describing the withdrawal itself.
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