herbivore-type man; passive man in romance
Describes a man who is not assertive in pursuing romantic relationships, often contrasted with 肉食系 (carnivorous type). The literal meaning 'herbivore' is also used in context.
最近の若い男性には草食系が多いと言われている。
It is said that many young men these days are herbivore types.
彼は草食系だから、自分からデートに誘わない。
He's a passive type, so he doesn't ask people out on dates.
herbivore man; man not assertive in romance or career
Compound of 草食 (herbivorous) and 系 (type, system). The figurative sense emerged in the 2000s as a media label for men not actively seeking romantic relationships.