Samurai
The hereditary warrior class of pre-modern Japan, bound by a strict code of honor.
Origin
The samurai emerged in the late Heian period (~12th century) and ruled Japan as the dominant military caste until the Meiji Restoration of 1868 abolished their privileges. Their ethical code โ bushidล, the way of the warrior โ emphasized loyalty, discipline, and a willingness to die for one's lord. Kurosawa's films exported the image worldwide.
Modern usage
Used as shorthand for disciplined excellence, especially in business and martial-arts writing. 'A samurai of code review' is the kind of compliment a manager pays.
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Related
Eastern Traditions
Rลnin
A masterless samurai โ an independent, unattached, often dangerous figure.
Eastern Traditions
Zen
A school of Buddhism emphasizing meditation โ and, casually, anything calm and unflappable.
Norse Mythology
Berserker
A Viking warrior who fought in a trance-like rage.