oyabun
Oyabun (noun) means the top boss of a yakuza crime family. Example: “The oyabun ruled the gang with absolute authority, answering to no one.”
How to use oyabun
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe head of a yakuza clan, treated almost like a father figure by its members.
Word forms
oyabuns plural, oyabun plural
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The _____ ruled the gang with absolute authority, answering to no one.
Etymology
Borrowed from Japanese, literally "foster parent," reflecting the family-like hierarchy of yakuza organisations.
Frequently asked questions
What does “oyabun” mean?
The word “oyabun” means the top boss of a yakuza crime family. In plain terms, the head of a yakuza clan, treated almost like a father figure by its members.
How do you use “oyabun” in a sentence?
Here is “oyabun” used in a sentence: “The oyabun ruled the gang with absolute authority, answering to no one.”
What part of speech is “oyabun”?
“Oyabun” is a noun.
Where does the word “oyabun” come from?
The word “oyabun” comes from Japanese. Borrowed from Japanese, literally "foster parent," reflecting the family-like hierarchy of yakuza organisations.
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