Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

hikikomori

noun

/ˌhɪkɪkəˈmɔːri/

Definition

A social phenomenon characterized by extreme social withdrawal, where individuals, often adolescents or young adults, isolate themselves at home for extended periods.

Examples

After experiencing a series of failures, he became a hikikomori, spending months in his room without any social interaction.
Support groups are being formed to help hikikomori individuals reintegrate into society.
The phenomenon of hikikomori has drawn attention in Japan, where it was first identified.

Meaning

Hikikomori refers to individuals who refuse to engage with society and prefer to stay secluded, often due to psychological issues such as anxiety or depression.