seppuku

[ se-poo-koo ]

noun

1. hara-kiri ( def 1 ).

seppuku

/ sɛˈpuːkuː /

noun

1. See hara-kiri
   another word for hara-kiri

Word History and Origins

Origin of seppuku¹

First recorded in 1900–05; from Japanese, earlier s(y)et-puku, from Middle Chinese, equivalent to Chinese qiè “cut” + fù “belly”

Word History and Origins

Origin of seppuku¹

from Japanese, from Chinese ch`ieh to cut + fu bowels

Example Sentences

Now, my readers will understand that hara-kiri, or seppuku, was not a mere suicidal process.

From Project Gutenberg

But if you do not enjoy it, I shall commit hara kiri, or seppuku, which is the polite name.

From Project Gutenberg

I was proud to stay at this "hotel" and to receive as a parting gift an old seppuku blade.

From Project Gutenberg

The physical agony of "seppuku" was, therefore, very brief, lasting but a few seconds.

From Project Gutenberg

In thus describing the Japanese sentiment in regard to "seppuku," there is, however, some danger of misrepresenting it.

From Project Gutenberg