karate

ka-ra-te · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A Japanese martial art developed in Okinawa, characterized by striking techniques using punches, kicks, knee strikes, and elbow strikes, practiced both as a form of self-defense and as a competitive sport.

  2. 2.

    (Attributive) Relating to this martial art or its practitioners.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    karate chop — A sharp blow delivered with the side of the hand
  • •
    karate kid — A young person learning or practicing karate
  • •
    black belt in karate — The highest rank in many karate systems, indicating advanced proficiency

Related words

See also: judo, martial_arts, taekwondo

Etymology

From Japanese 空手 (karate), literally meaning "empty hand," from 空 (kara, "empty") + 手 (te, "hand"), reflecting that it is a form of unarmed combat.