chibi

Chibi is a noun originated in the Japanese language to describe a short person or child. It may also connote a derogatory meaning when addressing a minor.

Chibi and Popular Culture

In Western fanfiction a chibi is a child-like version of an anime or manga character, who is older in the original series. A chibi rendition of a character is usually done for comedic purposes. Sometimes it is used as a modifier with a name to denote a child version of a character, (e.g. Chibi Vegeta, Chibi Malik) This usage is used chiefly for anime or manga characters. Chibis are typically known to be super-kawaii, speak in a childlike voice (e.g. "Hewoo, Mir-ray-oo"), have irresistible puppy eyes, and a mischevious personality. Recreational anime artists sometimes use the term Super deformed interchangeably with chibi and some use it to describe a child or baby version of an anime or manga character. Chibi is also used to show extreme signs of emotion through small versions of the character, usually with no nose, and have distinct cultural references to Japan.

Chibi

Chibi and Popular Culture

See also