oyabun
/ˈoʊjəbʊn/
noun
- A boss or leader, especially in a Japanese organized crime group (yakuza).
- In the movie, the oyabun was a respected but feared figure in the underworld.
- The young gang member hoped to prove his loyalty to the oyabun.
- The oyabun gave orders to his men in a quiet, firm voice.
- A person who acts as a mentor or father figure in a hierarchical relationship, especially in traditional Japanese organizations.
- In the dojo, the sensei was like an oyabun to his students, guiding them in life as well as in martial arts.
- The old craftsman served as an oyabun to the apprentices, teaching them skills and discipline.
- She respected her boss not just as a manager but as an oyabun who looked out for her career.