interjection
- A Japanese exclamation used to express enthusiasm, loyalty, or celebration.
Usage: From Japanese; literally means 'ten thousand years'; Often used in English to express excitement or approval
noun
- A suicidal attack or charge, especially one made by Japanese soldiers in World War II.
Usage: Historical; refers to military tactics; Often used in the phrase 'banzai charge'
Examples
- The crowd shouted 'banzai!' as the team scored the winning goal.
- The students cheered 'banzai!' at the school assembly.
- In World War II, Japanese soldiers sometimes launched banzai charges against enemy positions.
- The festival ended with everyone raising their glasses and shouting banzai.
- He yelled banzai in celebration when he heard the good news.