What does the term hara-kiri mean

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The term 'hara-kiri' is very commonly used, in a joking manner, by English speakers who want to imply that suicide might be their next option. Originally from the Japanese, what does 'hara-kiri' literally mean?Correct answer:Belly cutting Interesting Info: The ritual of 'hara-kiri' was recognized as an honorable way for a Samurai to take his life, if the circumstances warranted it. It was most often the case that a Samurai warrior was ordered by the imperial court or the local Daimyo to take his life by cutting open his abdomen, a self-imposed death penalty. These days in the United States, no one will take you seriously if you use this word...it's meant to imply desperation or exasperation, but not the literal slicing open of your belly!