Deredere is a Japanese onomatopoeia that translates to “lovey-dovey” and has been combined with other Japanese words to refer to the type of love personalities you see in anime and manga. It's impossible to deny that -dere archetypes have shaped fans' perspective on anime characters. To some otaku, -dere archetypes are seen as overrated, purposely used for fan service, but over time, -dere archetypes provided us with some iconic anime characters, standardizing a unique set of personality traits and behaviors that define every character.
Here’s an overview of some well-known -dere archetypes and the anime characters that best represent these personalities.
Dandere
Dandere characters are extremely shy and quiet. They can get nervous easily when interacting with others, and they will hide when feeling embarrassed. They tend to have social anxiety and will only talk when called upon. When alone with the person they like, dandere characters will act sweet and will slowly open up. Some prime danderes are Sawako “Sadako” Kuronuma from Kimi ni Todoke and Shin-Ah from Yona of the Dawn.
Tsundere
The tsundere archetype is one of the well-known -dere archetypes you would see in an anime series. They are known to have the “hot and cold” persona. When tsunderes are around their crush, they act aggressively and cold, making it seem like they don’t like them. In actuality, they hide their true feelings because they are secretly shy or insecure. Over time, tsundere characters will often inadvertently reveal their kind and warm nature to their crush. Some popular tsunderes are Taiga Aisaka from Toradora! and Kyo Sohma from Fruits Basket.
Kuudere
Kuudere characters are a combination of a tsundere and a dandere. They're known to be a bit cold and blunt to others and have a tendency to show little or no emotion at all, which is indicated by these characters’ monotone voices. They are so calm that they don’t panic during stressful situations. Even though they act a bit cold, they will often express love and care in an overwhelming manner if you are the right person. Kuudere characters are known to be highly intelligent and are characterized as strong leaders. Two examples of kuudere characters are Yuki Nagato from The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya and Takashi “Mori” Morinozuka from Ouran High School Host Club.
Deredere
The deredere archetype is also known as the “lovey-dovey” character. A deredere is an overly optimistic and energetic person who is “best friends” with practically everyone. They are social and outgoing to the point where their positivity spreads to others. When it comes to crushes, they openly express their affection. A deredere character doesn’t have a jealous streak -- in fact, deredere characters are kind to their romantic rivals and are willing to accept the possibility of their crush liking someone else. As for deredere anime characters, some examples are Rinko Yamato from Ore Monogatari! and Tamaki Suou from Ouran High School Host Club.
Himedere/Oujidere
Oujidere and himedere are both royalty -dere archetypes. Both of these archetypes portray characters in an aristocratic manner and expect their significant other to treat them like royalty. They see themselves as superior and possess arrogant attitudes that may seem a bit obnoxious.
When it comes to himedere characters, they want to be treated like princesses and queens; thus, they are a bit arrogant and cold-hearted perfectionists who expect nothing but the best. Erina Nakiri from Food Wars! is an example of a himedere. Erina has a natural talent for cooking and has a privileged life, resulting in treating others arrogantly. However, later on, Erina shows a softer side of herself when interacting with Soma Yukihira.
Oujidere characters are the male counterpart of a himedere character, wanting to be treated like kings and princes. They are also popular due to their charming good looks and charismatic nature. Oikawa Tooru, the “Grand King of the Court,” from Haikyuu!! is an oujidere character. He has budding talent as the Ace setter for Aoba Jousai’s volleyball team and is overly confident and popular among female students.
Yandere
Yandere characters are dangerous ones. When with their crush, they act “lovey-dovey” to the point where it seems a bit over possessive. Eventually, their love will transform into an unhealthy obsession, resulting in irrational and violent behavior that’s mentally and emotionally abusive. Yandere characters get very jealous and willing to hurt or attack someone to maintain their “picture perfect” relationship with their lover. Gasai Yuno from Future Diary is the “Queen of Yandere.” Other yanderes include Kotonoha Katsura from School Days and Toma from Amnesia.
