banzai
/bɑnˈzaɪ/
interjection
- A Japanese exclamation meaning 'ten thousand years,' used as a cheer or cry of enthusiasm, celebration, or encouragement.
- The soldiers cried 'Banzai!' as they charged forward.
- The crowd shouted 'Banzai!' as the emperor passed by.
- At the festival, everyone raised their hands and yelled 'Banzai!' to celebrate the new year.
adjective
- Relating to a reckless or desperate military attack, especially one with a large group charging forward without regard for survival.
- The movie showed a dramatic banzai charge during the battle.
- Historians describe the banzai tactics used in the Pacific campaign.
- The general ordered a banzai assault against the enemy position.