word
Japanese
senpai
SEN-py
ˈsɛnpaɪListen
Hear it in a clear American voice. Slow it down to catch each syllable.
Syllable breakdown
senpai
Sounds like
Say 'SEN-py'.
Dictionary meaning
In Japanese culture, a senior colleague or mentor; someone who has more experience in a shared context.
History and origin
Japanese — 'sen' (earlier, before) + 'pai' (comrade).
Examples
- The new employee was assigned a senpai to show them the ropes of company culture.
Common mispronunciations
SEN-paysen-PIE
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