Definition: A character that initially acts cold towards the protagonist, but over time becomes romantically attracted to them.
Common Traits: A Tsundere will always deny their feelings towards the protagonist. You’ll know one when you see one. What’s important to understand is exactly how the Tsundere denies her feelings.
Hinagiku Katsura (Hayate the Combat Butler)
Denying it to Themselves– Some Tsundere will actively try to repress their emotions towards their love interest. This usually stems from either a lack of self confidence, or a feeling of disdain for said love interest, or both.
Taiga Aisaka (Toradora)
Denying it to Everyone– Once a Tsundere accepts her emotions, it does’t necessarily mean she will admit them to anyone else. They’ll keep or adopt a façade of annoyance when prompted about the protagonist, a façade which is distinctive from ordinary reactions of modesty and embarrassment.
Ryoko Okami (Okami-San and the Seven Companions)
Denying it to the Protagonist– Whenever a Tsundere and their love interest are alone together, the Tsundere will act flustered and lose their composure. They may even act violently in an attempt to deny their emotions when confronted with them so up close.
Appeal: Tsundere are very prevalent in anime, especially love comedies and harems. They’re usually the most interesting characters because their usually very romantically inept. They have a hard time expressing themselves, which translates into funny moments. The fumble their speech, make rash decisions, react foolishly, all the while becoming increasingly sympathetic characters.
Special Note: “Male Tsundere” (Baka and Tests-Summon the Beast)