pachinko

American  

[puh-ching-koh] / pəˈtʃɪŋ koʊ /

noun

1. a Japanese pinball game played on a vertical machine in which slots struck by the player's ball release other balls that in turn are exchanged for noncash prizes.

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pachinko British  

/ pəˈtʃɪŋkəʊ /

noun

1. a Japanese game similar to pinball

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Etymology

Origin of pachinko

1950–55; < Japanese, equivalent to pachin click! (imitative) + -ko diminutive suffix

Example Sentences

Like the pachinko game that serves as title and metaphor for the series and the Min Jin Lee book on which it is based, action and reaction overpower whatever plans we might make.

From Los Angeles Times

"Konami shifted its strategy for a while, away from console games, and focused its efforts on the amusements markets, things like pachinko machines," Mr Dring said.

From BBC

Bonds forged from necessity create a family network that allows its members to survive World War II, only to struggle with excess when their pachinko parlors become highly successful.

From Los Angeles Times

It also makes toys and pachinko and so-called “pachislot” machines, and owns intellectual property in animation works.

From Seattle Times

They had no experience in the business — Sadao’s family owned a Tokyo pachinko parlor — but figured it would be easier to master than other trades.

From Los Angeles Times