Terms and Definitions
Last update: June 11, 2005

This is a section where I have definitions and explanations to certain terms/words that you may be unaware of. Freshen up your knowledge here. Most terms in this page focus on items or products in Japan so it may not be 100% accurate if taken out of context.

Anime - The term used for Japanese cartoons. (Please do not use "Japanimation" unless you want to get your ass kicked by some otakus. ^^;;)

Artbooks - They consist of artwork and illustrations from various artists and companies. They range from mainstream stuff like manga, anime and video games to the artists' own collected works.

Be@rbricks - Small block-like figures made by Medicom. They are the same as Kubricks except they have a bear-shaped head and a belly.

Bikini Idols - Japanese models who pose in bikinis and other types of swimwear in photobooks. The material is usually innocent or artsy.

Capsule Toys - See Gashapons

Cosplay - Term used for people who dress up in costumes of their favorite characters. They are usually based on characters from anime or video games. But any subject matter is valid.

Ecchi - Term used for softcore adult-related anime and manga (aka porn).

Garage Kits - Term used for models or figures made by Japanese sculptors. These items are generally sold unassembled and unpainted. They are very expensive and are only avalilable in limited quantities. They are usually based on characters or vehicles from anime and video games. But almost any subject is valid.

Gashapons - The term used for small trading figures that come from vending machines in small capsules. They are called gashapons because of the sound the vending machine makes sounds like "gasha gasha" (in Japanese) when you're turning the dial. They are also known as capsule toys.

Hair Nudes - Japanese nude models in photobooks who leave their pubic hair unshaven. They tend to show everything but their bush keeps their lower privates.

Hentai - Term used for hardcore adult-related anime and manga (aka porn). It literally means "pervert" in Japanese.

Kubricks - Small block-like figures made by Medicom. They consist of nine body parts. "Ku" means nine in Japanese.

Manga - Japanese for comics. (Pronounced "Monga")

PVC (Polyvinyl chloride) - A type of plastic. Many many Japanese toys and figures have been made with this material. For more information, check here.

Qees - Block-like figures which are similar to Be@rbricks. They are made by Toy2R.

Trading Figures - Similar to gashapons except they're not sold in vending machines and they're usually larger. They tend to be made from higher quality plastic than gashapons and are usually sold in blind boxes.

Otaku - Term used for hardcore anime fans or equivalent.

Photobooks - They consist of photos of models of different types in Japan. They range from innocent stuff like bikinis and cosplay to more erotic stuff like nude models etc. The models vary from actresses and singers to porn stars and regular models whom are also known as idols.