Sansei

American  

[sahn-sey, sahn-sey] / ˈsɑn seɪ, sɑnˈseɪ /

Or sansei

noun

1. a grandchild of Japanese immigrants to the U.S. or Canada.

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Etymology

Origin of Sansei

1940–45; < Japanese: third generation, earlier san-seĩ < Middle Chinese, equivalent to Chinese sān three + · shēng birth

Example Sentences

They grooved to the music in bell-bottomed trousers, wide-lapeled shirts and platform shoes, said Harry Manaka, author of “Chronicles of a Sansei Rocker” and a former owner of the bar.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 29, 2022

Konno's dad and his siblings are Sansei, or third generation.

From BBC • Feb. 20, 2022

American amusement ride manufacturer S&S – Sansei Technologies is credited with building the roller coaster.

From Fox News • Sep. 2, 2021

Once the rice of "Sansei" is laid, the decadent Austen-inflected Spam of "Sensibility" is layered on top, all held together by the strong and savory nori of Yamashita's skill.

From Salon • May 5, 2020

Meanwhile, younger Japanese Americans, or third-generation known as Sansei, began responding to their parents’ silence about their wartime experiences with political activism.

From Washington Post • Jan. 24, 2020