Buzz
Explore the defining traits and narrative evolution of a himedere character
Do you love anime or manga and keep hearing your favorite character called a “himedere?” Here’s what it really means. A himedere is usually a female character who appears proud, regal, and craves attention, yet hides a more vulnerable and tender personality beneath. These characters often undergo a journey of personal growth, embracing their emotional side. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the himedere archetype, covering key traits, personality markers, and standout examples from anime and manga.
Himedere: A Brief Overview
The himedere is a recognizable female character type in anime and manga. She acts with elegance and superiority—often from noble roots—and seeks the admiration of her romantic interest. Although she may start out as arrogant and haughty, over time, she reveals a gentler, more affectionate side.
How It Works
What is the Meaning of Himedere?
Himedere refers to a specific anime and manga character archetype. This term usually describes a female character of noble lineage who behaves with elegance and superiority while craving admiration and affection. In romantic plots, a himedere often seeks to be pampered by their crush, only to later reveal a more caring and thoughtful nature.
- “Himedere” combines “hime-sama” (a Japanese term for a noble young lady) and “deredere” (meaning someone who is lovestruck).
- While “hime-sama” is sometimes translated as “princess,” it’s actually a respectful title for noblewomen. The Japanese word for princess is “oujo.”
Traits and Personality of a Himedere
Himedere are portrayed as noble or high-ranking female characters. They’re often daughters of royalty or prominent figures, or simply enjoy elevated status in the story’s world. This background contributes to their often proud, imperious demeanor.
- Because of their elite upbringing, himedere characters usually act graceful and refined. They’re shown frequenting luxurious events, socializing with fellow nobles, and appreciating lavish things.
- Many himedere have distinct features like blonde, sometimes curly hair—though there are exceptions to this visual trope.
Himedere usually begin as conceited, self-centered, and high-maintenance. At the start, they’re clingy—especially around someone they’re romantically interested in. They demand constant praise, lavish gifts, and expect everything to revolve around them.
- They tend to be too proud to confess their feelings, preferring their crush to make the first move and shower them with attention.
- If ignored—even for valid reasons like work—a himedere might become upset or lash out emotionally.
- This initial phase of extreme entitlement and bossiness is often referred to as the “hime” stage.
As the story unfolds, himedere characters often reveal a gentler, more loving side. Despite their initial arrogance and demanding behavior, they genuinely care more than they let on. Eventually, many himedere come to recognize their own flaws in how they've treated their love interest. This leads to feelings of guilt and a shift toward openness, tenderness, and a desire to return the affection they've received.
- Entering the “dere” stage, himedere typically feel eager to respond to their partner’s affection with their own romantic gestures.
- They start to understand that relationships are about mutual enjoyment—not just about their own desires.
- They may become adorably affectionate or grow more at ease with vulnerability and closeness.
Where the Himedere Archetype Comes From
The word “himedere” traces back to the manga series My Sweet Devil. This anthology of short stories includes a tale titled “Himedere♡,” published in June 2016. The narrative follows Shoko Saionji, a noblewoman, and her boyfriend, Satoshi. At first, Shoko scolds Satoshi for putting work above her, but with a little help from friends, she soon recognizes his unwavering devotion.
Other Common 'Dere' Character Types
Oujodere Oujodere share similarities with himedere in their graceful, princess-like demeanor. However, unlike himedere, oujodere aren’t needy or self-important; instead, they show kindness and warmth privately from the start of the relationship.
- Some fans view himedere as the more self-centered version of an oujodere.
- “Oujidere” describes a male counterpart who wishes to be treated like royalty in romance, just as male himedere characters are often labeled “oujidere.”
- The term “bocchandere” applies to characters of high status who flaunt their superiority, believing themselves above others.
Tsundere Tsundere is a well-known anime and manga archetype that portrays characters who act cold, harsh, or standoffish to hide how they really feel about their crush. Like himedere, tsundere characters tend to behave poorly toward those they secretly love. But while tsundere push their romantic interest away, himedere crave their attention and expect to be adored.
- Tsundere often tease or insult their crush to mask their feelings, whereas himedere typically only lash out when they feel ignored or neglected.
- While tsundere might appear arrogant as a defense mechanism, himedere genuinely see themselves as superior—especially early on.
Kamidere Kamidere is another archetype that can apply to any gender. These characters want to be worshipped like deities and often treat their love interest as beneath them. Compared to himedere, kamidere are even more commanding—they don’t just want attention; they demand reverence. Plus, they lack the refined, ladylike behavior typical of himedere.
Famous Himedere Characters
Himedere characters show up in many anime and manga stories. While whether a character fits the archetype is often up for debate, plenty of examples strongly align with himedere traits. Here are some notable ones:
- Mio Aoyama from The World God Only Knows. Despite her family’s fall from wealth, Mio maintains her rich-girl facade—until Keima teaches her that joy doesn’t come from riches.
- Rurichiyo Kasumioji from Bleach. Proud and quick-tempered, Rurichiyo speaks in royal tones and expects her way—but deep down, she’s sincere and warm-hearted.
- Minerva Orland from Fairy Tail. Introduced with a queen-like ego, Minerva later reveals a softer, more compassionate side, especially around her guild.
- Saki Tenjouin from To LOVE-Ru. Flashy and self-important, Saki is easily upset when she feels overshadowed but still strives to treat everyone with dignity.
- Mary Saotome from Kakegurui. Arrogant and cruel at first, Mary puts down her classmate Ryota—but later grows more empathetic through her experiences.
- Erina Nakiri from Food Wars!: Shokugeki no Soma. Erina embodies elegance and dominance, often visualizing herself as royalty commanding admiration and power.
- Azazel Ameri from Welcome to Demon School! Iruma-Kun. As student council president, Ameri is composed, ladylike, and a bit conceited—yet she hides a charming, tender side.
- Daki from Demon Slayer. Though more sinister than most himedere, Daki is undeniably vain and craves the spotlight in the Entertainment District.
