1. The "Gang" Connection:
* Most likely origin: The word is likely derived from the word "gang," with "gank" being a shortened and slangy version. This makes sense considering the term is often used to refer to a surprise attack or robbery, actions commonly associated with gangs.
2. Possible Roots in "Gangster":
* Urban Slang: Some argue that "gank" originated in the 1940s in African American urban slang, where it was a shorter and more informal version of "gangster."
3. Influence from Japanese "Gan":
* Less Likely, but Possible: There's a less popular theory suggesting the word came from the Japanese word "gan," which can mean "fierce" or "brave." While possible, this connection lacks strong evidence and is considered less likely.
4. Emergence in Popular Culture:
* Early Uses: The word gained popularity in the 1980s, possibly influenced by its usage in video games like "The Legend of Zelda" and "Final Fantasy." These games used "gank" to describe the act of ambushing or killing a player, solidifying the term in gaming slang.
In Summary:
While the precise origin of "gank" remains a bit unclear, the most widely accepted theory is that it's a shortened version of "gang" or "gangster," evolving as slang and solidifying its use in gaming culture.
The word's usage has evolved further, now often referring to a group of players in online games who coordinate to attack another player. Regardless of its exact origin, "gank" remains a popular slang term, particularly in online gaming communities.