Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

kibei

Noun

kee-bay

Definition

A person of Japanese descent who is born or raised in the United States (or Western countries) but has returned to Japan, often retaining a blend of both American and Japanese influences.

Examples

Many kibei individuals find it challenging to navigate their identity in both cultures.
The kibei population contributed to the cultural exchange between Japan and the U.S.

Meaning

Kibei refers specifically to Japanese Americans who go to Japan for a period and then return, experiencing cultural interplay between their American upbringing and Japanese heritage.