Kamikaze: meaning, definitions and examples
✈️
kamikaze
[ ˌkæmɪˈkɑːzeɪ ]
military history
Kamikaze refers to a Japanese term meaning 'divine wind'. Historically, it describes a tactic used during World War II by Japanese pilots who flew suicide missions, deliberately crashing their aircraft into enemy targets, particularly ships. The term can also refer to the pilots themselves, showcasing their dedication and willingness to sacrifice their lives for their country.
Synonyms
self-sacrifice, suicidal flight, suicide attack.
Examples of usage
- The kamikaze pilots displayed extreme bravery.
- Kamikaze attacks caused significant damage to Allied ships.
- The strategy of kamikaze was a last resort for Japan.
Translations
Translations of the word "kamikaze" in other languages:
🇵🇹 kamikaze
🇮🇳 कमिकाज़े
🇩🇪 Kamikaze
🇮🇩 kamikaze
🇺🇦 камікадзе
🇵🇱 kamikaze
🇯🇵 神風 (かみかぜ)
🇫🇷 kamikaze
🇪🇸 kamikaze
🇹🇷 kamikaze
🇰🇷 카미카제
🇸🇦 كاميكا زي
🇨🇿 kamikaze
🇸🇰 kamikaze
🇨🇳 神风 (kāngfēng)
🇸🇮 kamikaze
🇮🇸 kamikaze
🇰🇿 камикадзе
🇬🇪 კამიკაძე
🇦🇿 kamikaze
🇲🇽 kamikaze
Etymology
The term 'kamikaze' has its roots in the Japanese language, combining 'kami' meaning 'god' or 'spirit' and 'kaze' meaning 'wind'. Its historical significance dates back to 1281, when typhoons destroyed Mongol fleets attempting to invade Japan, perceived by the Japanese as a divine intervention. However, it became widely recognized during World War II, when young Japanese pilots volunteered for deadly missions against Allied naval forces. These missions were a final desperate measure for Japan as the war turned against them. Such tactics underline the intense nationalistic fervor of the time, where the concept of bushido, or the way of the warrior, emphasized honor in sacrifice. The kamikaze tactics have since influenced military strategies and popular culture, representing ultimate sacrifice and devotion.