Definition

A type of gambling game from Japan that is played on a vertical machine similar to pinball, where players try to win small metal balls that can be exchanged for prizes.

Example

He spent the afternoon playing pachinko at the arcade.

Conversation

Have you ever played pachinko before?

No, I haven't, but I've heard it's really fun!

It's like a mix of pinball and gambling; you should try it sometime.

That sounds interesting! I'd love to check out a pachinko parlor.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

The word 'pachinko' originates from Japanese, where 'pachi' (meaning to click or snap) and 'nko' (a diminutive suffix) combine to refer to a type of mechanical game that involves clicking sounds as balls are shot into a machine. Thus, 'pachinko' describes a game characterized by the clicking sound of the balls.

Memory Tip

Imagine the sound of balls 'clicking' ('pachi') in a game, which helps you remember that 'pachinko' is a game involving those clicking sounds.

Visually Confused Words