What does the “V-J” in Victory over Japan Day mean?

The “V-J” in Victory over Japan Day means “Victory over Japan.”

The expression follows the pattern of V-E Day, meaning Victory in Europe Day, which marked Nazi Germany’s surrender in May 1945. Allied governments and news organizations used V-J Day for celebrations marking Japan’s defeat and surrender in the Pacific War.

The date associated with V-J Day varies by location and definition. Japan’s surrender announcement was broadcast on August 15, 1945, while the announcement reached the United States on August 14 because of time-zone differences. September 2 is also significant because Japanese representatives signed the formal surrender document that day.

“V-J” refers to the defeated country, not to a Japanese-language phrase. The related term “V-P Day,” or Victory in the Pacific Day, was also used, especially in Australia and New Zealand.