11 English Words That Were Originally Japanese

If you're a native English speaker, you may know more Japanese than you think. For example, the word "tycoon" has come to mean in English a wealthy and powerful business leader, such as the above pictured Howard Hughes. But originally, taikun (大君) referred to the shoguns of Japan, who dominated that nation for centuries until the Meiji Restoration in 1868.

This is one of 11 English words of Japanese origin described by Michelle Lynn Dinh of Rocket News 24. Among them is, of course, anime. But as Dinh explains, the history of that word is a bit complex.


Newest 5
Newest 5 Comments

But the article gave a bonus word "anime," which came from the Japanese word "anime," which itself came from the English word "animation" (animeshon).

So "anime" is a word that came from English to Japanese and back to English!
Abusive comment hidden. (Show it anyway.)
Login to comment.




Email This Post to a Friend
"11 English Words That Were Originally Japanese"

Separate multiple emails with a comma. Limit 5.

 

Success! Your email has been sent!

close window
X

This website uses cookies.

This website uses cookies to improve user experience. By using this website you consent to all cookies in accordance with our Privacy Policy.

I agree
 
Learn More