English edit

Etymology edit

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

Pronunciation edit

Noun edit

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 edit

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