originoid

An originoid is a fictional concept, primarily appearing in anime and manga, referring to a synthetic being or android that closely resembles a human, often possessing human-like emotions, memories, and physical characteristics. The term itself is a portmanteau of "origin" and "android," suggesting a created being that may have been designed to mimic or even replace a specific human.

Originoids are typically distinguished from standard robots or androids by their advanced level of sophistication and their capacity for genuine emotional response. Unlike mechanical constructs, originoids may be indistinguishable from humans in appearance and behavior, sometimes even possessing biological components or being grown from organic matter. Their creation often stems from a desire to replicate or preserve a lost loved one, or as a means to explore the nature of humanity itself.

The narrative implications of originoids often revolve around themes of identity, consciousness, and what it means to be human. Characters who are originoids frequently grapple with their own artificiality, their place in society, and the nature of their existence. Their relationships with humans can be complex, ranging from companionship to conflict, as the lines between creator and creation, and human and artificial, become blurred. The concept allows for exploration of philosophical questions about the soul, free will, and the potential for artificial life to possess genuine sentience.