Quick Definition
The Literal Meaning vs. Cultural Nuance
At its core, waku waku is a mimetic word (giseigo/gitaigo) that mimics the sensation of a heart beating with joy or nervousness. Unlike simple ‘excitement,’ which can sometimes imply a chaotic or loud energy, waku waku carries a light, airy, and purely optimistic connotation. It is the feeling you get when you are about to open a long-awaited gift or when you are starting a new chapter in your life. It reflects a state of being that is deeply connected to one’s Ikigai, as finding things that make your heart go ‘waku waku’ is often considered a key to a purposeful and happy life.
Real-life Examples
- Ashita wa ryokō da! Waku waku suru! (I’m going on a trip tomorrow! I’m so excited!)
- Atarashii shigoto ni waku waku shiteimasu. (I am feeling excited and looking forward to my new job.)
This positive outlook is often balanced by the Japanese cultural emphasis on being Majime, or earnest, ensuring that even when we are excited, we remain mindful of our surroundings and responsibilities.
Yu’s Perspective
To me, waku waku is the sound of the ‘inner child’ in every Japanese person. In our society, where we often prioritize harmony and reserve, waku waku is a rare, permitted expression of pure, unadulterated enthusiasm. It is a beautiful, sparkling emotion that reminds us that no matter how structured our lives become, the capacity for genuine wonder and anticipation remains essential to the human experience.
