yakuza
noun/jəˈkuːzə/, /ˈjækuːzɑː/
/jəˈkuːzə/, /ˈjækuːzɑː/
(also Yakuza)
often the yakuza
[singular] (from Japanese)- a secret organization of criminals in Japan that is similar to the Mafia
- The yakuza is involved in gambling and drugs.
- The Yakuza has a very complex organizational structure.
Word OriginJapanese, from ya ‘eight’ + ku ‘nine + za ‘three’, referring to the worst hand in a gambling game.Want to learn more?
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yakuza