A Japanese exclamation meaning 'ten thousand years' or 'long life,' used to express joy, celebration, or encouragement, especially in battle.
From Japanese banzai (万歳), composed of ban 'ten thousand' + sai 'years.' The phrase literally wishes someone 10,000 years of life and became a patriotic cheer during Japan's militaristic period.
Though 'banzai' now sounds like a celebration, it became infamous during WWII when Japanese soldiers used it in suicidal charges. Today, it's made a comeback as a joyful exclamation at sporting events and celebrations worldwide!
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