Internet
senpai
What does senpai mean?
In its original Japanese sense, a senior or upperclassman at school or work who mentors those below them. Anime imported the term wholesale.
"She bowed to her senpai before the kendo match."
Origin
Direct borrowing from Japanese 先輩 (senpai), meaning a senior in a school or workplace hierarchy. It crossed into Western internet culture through anime and the 'notice me senpai' meme of the early 2010s.
Frequently asked questions
What does senpai mean?
It means a senior or upperclassman you look up to. Online it usually means a crush or idol whose attention you want.
What does 'notice me senpai' mean?
It's a meme about longing for attention from someone you admire who doesn't seem to see you. It's used for crushes, idols, and even brands you wish would reply.
Is it senpai or sempai?
Both spellings appear because the Japanese pronunciation sits between an 'n' and 'm' sound. 'Senpai' is the more common romanization.
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