bonkler

English

Etymology

From Japanese ぼんくら (bonkura). Introduced to English by Azumanga Daioh. Possibly influenced by bonkers.

Pronunciation

• (Received Pronunciation) IPA^(key): /ˈbɒŋklə/
• (General American) IPA^(key): /ˈbɒŋklɚ/

Noun

bonkler (plural bonklers)

1. (particularly anime and manga fandom, rare) A dimwit or fool.
   • 2012, “ChibiAnime84's Azumanga Daioh (Manga) Review”, in MyAnimeList‎^[1], archived from the original on 2022-12-19:

     In any form or translation, Azumanga Daioh is a juggernaught title of the anime world, and if you haven't read it yet, you're a bonkler.

   • 2012, “Outfit Post: 5/25/12 (23 of 30)”, in Reading in Skirts‎^[2], archived from the original on 2013-10-06:

     Oh, we’ve also been slowly watching Azumanga Daioh whenever we’re in the mood, which is maybe why I’m feeling like such a Bonkler today?

2. (specifically) A member of a group of idiots, especially a member of a Three Stooges type group of eccentrics.
   • 2013, “Spring 2013: The rest of the field… 2nd Half!”, in The Anime Rambler – By Benigmatica‎^[3], archived from the original on 2022-12-19:

     But nothing to worry, I’m just gonna replace something that is more exciting than a Ordet-produced Lucky Star spin-off. Oh yes, and these three [Hayate no Gotoku! characters] will be bonklers (or stooges) for life!

   • 2019, “There are at least two shows this season about not being able to study”, in Karmaburn‎^[4], archived from the original on 2020-11-28:

     I guess even Potato-kun has his own positive qualities, but the show absolutely does not work for me. Frankly, I stopped caring whether these BOKUBEN bonklers manage to study or not.

Usage notes

Generally used in an endearing, self-deprecating, or otherwise humorous way. Sometimes capitalized.