The word otaku, similar to the word “nerd” in English, refers to a type of person who is unpopular with the opposite sex in school and who is typified by the image of being completely absorbed in... Otaku (Japanese: おたく, オタク, or ヲタク) is a type of Japanese subculture of people with consuming interests, such as anime, manga, video games, computers, or any other enthusiastically pursued hobby. Its contemporary use originated with a 1983 essay by Akio Nakamori in Manga Burikko. What is a Otaku and what is the Otaku culture? From how it's coined to the economy behind, this article will tell you everything you want to know about Otaku. Otaku is a Japanese word that means 'your house' or 'fan' and is often used to describe someone who is obsessed with a hobby, especially anime or manga. Learn about the origin, evolution and perception of otaku culture in Japan and abroad, from the 1960s to the present day.