What does the abbreviation “V-J” mean in the term “V-J Day,” associated with Japan’s 1945 surrender?

In “V-J Day,” the abbreviation V-J means “Victory over Japan.”

The term describes the Allied victory over Imperial Japan at the end of World War II. It was modeled on V-E Day, meaning Victory in Europe Day, which marked Germany’s surrender earlier in 1945.

V-J Day can refer to more than one date because Japan’s surrender unfolded in stages. August 15 was the date of Hirohito’s broadcast in Japan, while September 2 was the date of the formal signing aboard USS Missouri. In the Americas, the announcement was heard on August 14 because of time-zone differences.

The United Kingdom generally observes August 15 as V-J Day, while the United States traditionally associates the term with September 2. Australia has also used the name V-P Day, meaning Victory in the Pacific Day.