pachinko
UK[pəˈtʃɪŋkəʊ]US[pəˈtʃɪŋkoʊ]
n
a japanese mechanical game resembling a vertical pinball machine, used for gambling.
Etymology
the word 'pachinko' is a direct borrowing from japanese, where it is an onomatopoeic term. the name imitates the sound of the game's mechanics—specifically the 'pachin' sound of the ball hitting a pin and the 'ko' sound of it falling into a hole or cup. introduced to english in the mid-20th century, the term retains its original japanese form and refers exclusively to the distinctive japanese arcade-style gambling device. it exemplifies how specific cultural artifacts are imported into other languages along with their native names.
Analysis
this is a loanword from japanese. it is not segmented into meaningful morphemes within the english spelling system.
Examples
the arcade was filled with the bright lights and clattering sounds of pachinko machines.
he spent the afternoon playing pachinko, hoping to win a prize.
pachinko parlors are a common sight in many japanese cities.