Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Bonze \Bon"ze\ (b[o^]n"z[-e]; 277), n. [Pg. bonzo, fr. Japan.
   b[=o]zu a Buddhist priest: cf. F. bonze.]
   A Buddhist or Fohist priest, monk, or nun.

   Note: The name was given by the Portuguese to the priests of
         Japan, and has since been applied to the priests of
         China, Cochin China, and the neighboring countries.