manga

American  

[mahng-guh, mang‑] / ˈmɑŋ gə, ˈmæŋ‑ /

noun

1. a Japanese graphic novel, typically intended for adults, characterized by highly stylized art.

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manga British  

/ ˈmæŋɡə /

noun

1. 1. a type of Japanese comic book with an adult theme

   2. ( as modifier )

      manga videos

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Etymology

Origin of manga

1985–90; < Japanese: literally, cartoon, comic strip

Compare meaning

How does manga compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• manga vs. anime

Explanation

Manga is a Japanese style of comic books and graphic novels. Astro Boy and Dragon Ball are examples of popular manga. Manga is sold around the world and translated into dozens of languages, but it's mainly published in Japan, where it's popular with all ages of readers. In Japanese, manga literally translates to "involuntary pictures," but the word is used to describe both comics and cartooning. Western fans of manga recognize its distinctive style, with impressionistic backgrounds and big-eyed characters. Most manga is read from right to left, like Japanese writing.

Example Sentences

While reading the manga, Godoy would take photos of Luffy’s wildest faces to try to include them in his performance.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 10, 2026

She has since recreated Heated Rivalry's swoon-worthy moments in the style of Japanese manga.

From BBC • Feb. 26, 2026

The second, Netflix’s “One Piece,” which returns March 10, follows the ragtag Straw Hat Pirates of executive producer Eiichiro Oda’s manga series as they pursue the valuable One Piece treasure.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 6, 2026

Manufacturing giants like Sega or Bandai, involved in both video games and toys, then began negotiating licenses for anime and manga characters, with Sega notably securing Disney rights.

From Barron's • Dec. 26, 2025

In my memory, his eyes get bigger and bigger, almost like he's a manga character.

From "Will Grayson, Will Grayson" by John Green and David Levithan