Etymology Map
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Banzai

2 stages from Japanese to English.

Today it means a Japanese cheer of celebration, or (in English) a reckless headlong charge

Where does the word "banzai" come from? It comes from Japanese banzai, adopted directly into English (1940s).

1
Stage 1 of 2
banzai
Japanese · ancient
"a shout of celebration or long life"
literally 'ten thousand years', a traditional cheer wishing long life to the emperor
2
Stage 2 of 2
banzai
English · 1940s
"a reckless, all-out charge or cheer"
entered wartime English describing Japanese soldiers' charging cry
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