Definition of "hara-kiri" in English

noun

1. Ceremonial suicide by disembowelment, as by slicing open the abdomen with a dagger or knife: formerly practised in Japan by the samurai when disgraced or sentenced to death.

2. Suicide or any suicidal action.

3. (by extension, figuratively) An act against one's own interests.

   • Regarded logically, therefore, Japan’s decision to go to war made no sense. It was hara-kiri.