Definition

A large and powerful business group in Japan, often controlled by a single family, that combines various industries and financial interests.

Example

The zaibatsu played a significant role in Japan's economic development before World War II.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of a zaibatsu?

Yeah, I think it's a big business group in Japan, right?

Exactly! They used to have a lot of influence in the economy.

It's interesting how those conglomerates shaped Japan's history.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Zaibatsu is a Japanese term (財閥) that combines "zai" (meaning wealth or resources) and "batsu" (meaning faction or group). The word refers to large family-controlled vertical monopolies in the Japanese economy during the Meiji period and beyond, emphasizing their control over wealth and resources.

Memory Tip

Think of 'wealth' ('zai') and 'group' ('batsu') to remember that a zaibatsu is a powerful group that controls significant wealth.

Visually Confused Words