sayonara
/ˌsaɪ.əˈnɑː.rə/
Japanese Origin
Culture
Original Word
さようなら
Hiragana (sayōnara)
Entered English
1950s
First recorded usage in English
The Story Behind "sayonara"
From Japanese 'sayōnara' (さようなら), literally 'if it be so', a formal farewell. Entered English through American soldiers stationed in Japan after WWII and popular culture.
Example Usage
"After graduation, she said sayonara to her hometown and moved to the city."