samurai

noun

sam·​u·​rai ˈsa-mə-ˌrī How to pronounce samurai (audio)
ˈsam-yə-
plural samurai
1
: a military retainer of a Japanese daimyo practicing the code of conduct of Bushido
2
: the warrior aristocracy of Japan

Examples of samurai in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web His newest costume is Shao Kahn Bowser, a samurai version of the villain Bowser from Nintendo’s Mario franchise. Connie Ogle, Miami Herald, 9 July 2024 In 1192, a samurai named Minamoto Yoritomo — descended from the emperor Seiwa — earned the title of shōgun after the Minamoto family seized control of Japan following the defeat of the Taira clan during the Genpei War, which lasted from 1180 to 1185. Jp Mangalindan, Peoplemag, 18 July 2024 Sawai, critically acclaimed for her moving turn as the troubled but courageous Lady Mariko, secured her place in the best actress race, as did Asano — a fan favorite as the dishonorable but deeply likable samurai Kashigi Yabushige — in the best supporting actor category. Patrick Brzeski, The Hollywood Reporter, 17 July 2024 The samurai immediately sheathed his sword and walked away. Shivshankar Menon, Foreign Affairs, 16 Nov. 2023 See all Example Sentences for samurai 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'samurai.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Japanese

First Known Use

1727, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of samurai was in 1727

Dictionary Entries Near samurai

Cite this Entry

“Samurai.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/samurai. Accessed 19 Aug. 2024.

Kids Definition

samurai

noun
sam·​u·​rai ˈsam-(y)ə-ˌrī How to pronounce samurai (audio)
plural samurai
: a warrior serving a Japanese feudal lord and practicing a code of conduct which valued honor over life

More from Merriam-Webster on samurai

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