Kazoku Budokan

Terminology












 

Dojoese

Karate Terminology

A collection of thoughts and some facts

By

Verne Gilbert

 

A
abara Ribs
age Rising
age geri Rising kick.
age tsuki Rising punch, (age zuki).
age uke Rising block. Also known as a high or upper block.
age uchi Rising strike.
ago Jaw or chin
ai Combine, unite, join, gather, harmony.
aiki Harmony meeting. When one combines an opponent’s energy with their own for control.
aikido Literally, Meeting spirit way. A Martial Art developed by Uyeshiba Morihei in the 1930's. Based on Aikijutsu.
anata wa You  (Anata = you, Wa marks the subject of the sentence)
antei Balance, stability, or equilibrium.
anza Relaxed sitting, cross legged.
arigato Thank you
arigato gozaimasta Thank you very much
ase Perspiration, sweat.
ashi Leg, foot.
ashi barai Foot sweep.
ashi gatame Leg lock.
ashi kubi Ankle
ashi no ura Sole of the foot.
ashi no yubi Toe
ashi sabaki Footwork or foot movement.
ashi waza Foot techniques.
ashi guruma Leg wheel throw.
atama Head, top of the head
atama tsuku Head butt
ate To smash, to strike with the hand.
ate waza Methods or techniques of striking with the hand.
atemi To strike vital points of the body
atemi waza Methods or techniques of striking vital points of the body
ayumi dachi  A natural walking stance with the weight over the center.
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B  
bajutsu Japanese art of horsemanship. Also known as Jobajutsu.
ben Study and understanding.
bo Long staff, typically 6' in length and solid hardwood, also rattan and lighter material, sometimes tapered at the ends for more acute thrusting surfaces. A traditional Okinawan Kobudo weapon.
bogu Protective equipment of nonmetallic materials used in several styles of Japanese Karate, primarily for competitive sparring.
bojutsu An armed defense system centering around the use of the bo. It was developed from Japanese lance and spear
bokken Literally: Wooden sword; A wooden sword used by the Japanese feudal warrior as a practice weapon. The Bokken went on to become an effective battlefield weapon.  See bokto.
boku Tree, wood, lumber, wooden.
bokuto Wooden sword.  See bokken.
bu Military or warrior, having to do with war. A concept denoting the entire military dimension of feudal Japan.
budo Military way or way of fighting. A generic term encompassing all of the Japanese Martial Arts.
bujutsu Military arts. A collective term for all the Japanese Arts practiced by the Samurai.
bunkai Analysis. The detailed study of Martial Arts techniques.  Application of techniques in kata.
bushi Military person, warrior, or Samurai. A term for the Japanese warrior which was changed to Samurai in the 15th century.
bushido A strict code of ethical behavior followed by the Samurai, an enlightened path of self-mastery and honor.. Bushido was formulated during the Tokugawa Era (1603 - 1868) of Japan
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C  
cha chuan A northern Chinese form of Kung Fu developed from 14th to 17th century in the west and south of China. In this system, practitioners fight from long range using high, long leaps to close the gap.
chakuza Sit down.
chi Chinese, internal energy. Sometimes spelled Ch'i. In Japanese it is Ki.
chi gung Cantonese, The practice and cultivation of Chi. A meditative and internal form of exercise common to many Chinese Martial Arts. Sometimes spelled Qi Qong, Qi Gong, Chi Kung. See Chi.
chikara Strength
cho Long, length, excel in, leader, master, chief.
cho wa In the Japanese Martial Arts, the harmonious mental and physical reaction while at practice.
choku tsuki Straight punch.  Also spelled choku zuki
chu Central, center, middle.
chuan fa The major Chinese precursor of Karate. Most forms of 20th century Chuan Fa are said to be descendants of Ch'ueh Yuan's "170 hand and foot positions."
chudan Middle level. (chuudan)
chudan tsuki Middle level punch, (chudan zuki).
chudan geri Middle level kick.
chudan uchi Middle level strike
chudan uke Middle level block.
chudan-no-kamae Middle posture.
chugaeri Forward sumersault.
chugyo A Japanese term used to describe the principle of devotion and loyalty.
chushin Center, core.
chusoku Ball of the foot.
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D  
dachi Stance, see taichi
dai Literally:  Faithful service to that which is older.  In karate used as a suffix to denote a revised version of a kata.
dan Level
dan tsuki Consecutive punches. (dan zuki)
de ashi harai Advancing foot sweep.
deshi Pupil, disciple, apprentice, teacher's student-helper.
do The way of...way or path. When this term is used as a suffix to a particular style of the Japanese Martial Arts, it is indicative of more than just a means of combat. Do indicates a discipline and philosophy with moral and spiritual connotations.
do itashimashite You are welcome.
dogi Japanese term for a Martial Arts uniform.
dojo Practice Hall, literally "Place of Learning the Way"
dojo-kun Rules for conduct in a dojo.
dokyo Teaching of the way.
domo Thank you.
domo arigato gozaimashita Thank you very much.
doryoku Giving one's best effort to reach one's goal.
doshu Master or master of the way.
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E  
eku Oar, scull, paddle, row, Okinawan kobudo weapon. (eiku, ueku, kai, kai bo).
embusen Floor pattern of a given kata.
empi Elbow also known as hiji.
eri Lapel, collar.
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F  
fudo dachi Rooted stance.
fudo-shin Immovable mind.
fumikomi Stepping into, breaking or rushing into
fumikomi geri Stamp kick.
fumikomi tsuki Punch, stepping in. (fumikomi zuki)
fumikomi uchi Strike, stepping in.
fumikomi uke Block, stepping in.
furimi Dodging techniques.
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G  
gaeshi Turning, turn away, twist.
gankaku dachi Crane stance, sometimes referred to as tsuru ashi dachi and sagi ashi dachi.
gasshuku A special training camp
gatame Locking or holding.
gedan Low level. Lower section.
gedan barai Low section parry or block.
gedan geri Low level kick
gedan tsuki Punch to the low section of opponents body. (gedan zuki)
gedan uke Low level or downward block.
gedan-no-kamae Low posture.
genki With energy.
geri Kick, used as a suffix when describing a particular kick.  See kiri.
gi Uniform.
go Five, hard.
go no sen The tactic where one allows the opponent to attack first so to open up targets for counteracttack.
godan Fifth degree black belt.
gokyu Fifth kyu.
gomen Pardon me, excuse me.
gomennasai "I am sorry", "Pardon me".
goshi Hip, used as a suffix when describing a technique involving the hip. Example O-goshi, major hip throw.  See koshi.
goshin Self defence, self-protection.
goshin waza Self defense techniques.
Gung Fu The Cantonese pronunciation of Kung Fu.
gyaku Reverse or opposite, opposing.
gyaku ashi Reverse foot.
gyaku tsuki Reverse punch, (gyaku zuki).
gyaku-juji-jime Reverse cross strangle or choke.
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H  
hachi Eight, 8.
hachidan Eighth degree black belt.
hachiji dachi A natural stance, feet positioned about one shoulder width apart, with feet pointed slightly outward.
hachimaki Head wrapping. A light cotton towel, also known as a Tengui, wrapped around the forehead to restrict perspiration from running into the eyes and face.
hadaka-jime Naked strangle or choke.
hai Yes.
haishu Backhand.
haishu uchi Backhand strike.
haishu uke Backhand block.
haito Ridge hand.
haito uchi Ridge hand strike.
haito uke Ridge hand block
hakims Begin.
hakims Divided skirt. The skirt-like trousers or culottes primarily worn in Kendo, Aikido, Aikido, and sometimes the upper ranks of Judo.
hand Half.  ½ of an object.
henna Nose
hone-goshi Spring hip throw.
hane-maki-komi Spring wrap-around throw.
hangetsu dachi Half-moon stance.
hanpuku geiko Repeated training; repetition.
hanshi Master. A respected master of Martial disciplines.
hantai Opposite, other site, other direction.
hanuchiken Extended knuckles.
hanzenkutsu-dachi Half forward stance.
hara Stomach, belly, abdomen.
harai Sweep" or "sweeping.
harai waza Sweeping techniques.
harai-goshi Sweeping hip throw.
harai-tsuri-komi-ashi Lifting pulling foot sweep.
hasami tsuki Scissors punch, (hasami zuki).
hea Hair
hebi te Snake hand
heiko dachi A natural parallel stance. Feet positioned about one shoulder width apart, with feet pointed straight forward.
heisoku dachi Attention stance. Feet are together and pointed straight forward.
henka Change, variation, alteration.
hidari Left.
hiji Elbow, also known as empi.
hiji uchi Elbow strike. 
hiji uke A blocking action using the elbow.
hiji-dori Elbow grab.
hiki To pull, draw out, attract, to stretch. (-biki)
hiki-komi-gaeshi Throw, pulling-in reversal.
hiki-te The retracting (pulling and twisting) arm during a technique. It gives the balance of power to the forward moving technique. It can also be used as a pulling technique after a grab, or a strike backward with the elbow.
hiraken Fore-knuckle fist.  See hanuchiken.
hiragana A Japanese writing system.
hiza Knee.
hiza geri Literally: knee kick., striking with the knee.
hiza uke A blocking action using the knee.
hizagashira Kneecap.
hiza-guruma Knee wheel throw.
hombu Headquarters. This term can be used to define any headquarters for a Martial Arts school or group.
honken Thumb side of fist.
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I  
ibuki Breath control. Isotonic breathing exercises based on dynamic tension principles practiced in conjunction with, and also separate to, the execution of Karate techniques.
ichi One
ikkyu First kyu, highest student grade below black belt.
ippon One point.
ippon ken One knuckle fist.
ippon kumite One step sparring.
ippon nukite A stabbing action using the extended index finger.
ippon seoi nage One arm shoulder throw.
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J  
jikan Time
jiyu ippon kumite One step free sparring. The participants can attack with any technique whenever ready.
jiyu-kumite Free-style sparring.
jiyu-waza Free-style practice of techniques.
jo Wooden staff about 4'-5' in length. The jo originated as a walking stick.
jodan High level (joudan the “u” extends the o sound)
jodan age uke High level rising block.
jodan tsuki High level punch, (jodan zuki).
jodan geri High level kick.
jodan uke High level block.
jodan-no-kamae High posture.
Jodo Martial art based on the use of a jo staff.
ju Ten
ju Soft, gentle, pliant.
Judan Tenth degree black belt.
Judo The gentle way, a Japanese martial art, founded by Jigoro Kano
Judoka Judo practitioner
Juji Cross.  (juuji)
juji nage Crossed arm throw.
juji uke Cross Block or "x" block.
juji-gatame Cross armlock, several variations.
juji-nage Crossed arm throw.
Ju-jitsu (also Jiu-jitsu) Gentle art.
junte Normal, natural hand position.
fushi Knuckle
jutsu Art. A term linking a fighting method with the Bugei, or martial disciplines of war, rather than with the sporting or aesthetic practices of modern Japan.
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K  
kai Society, organization.
kaicho Director, president or leader of an organization.
kaisho Open hand.
kakato Heel of the foot.
kakato geri Heel kick.
kakato otoshi geri Axe kick.
kake Hang, suspend, hook. (-gake, kage, kagi)
kake geri Hooking kick.
kake tsuki Hooking punch, (kake zuki)
kake uchi Hooking strike.
kake uke Hooking block.
kakiwaki uke Wedge block.
kakushi waza Hidden techniques.
kama A small handheld sickle, often used in pairs, traditional Okinawan Kobudo weapons.
kama yari A spear to which a single-edged, sickle-shaped blade is attached.
kamae Posture, sometimes spelled gamae.
kami shiho gatame From Judo, north-south position hold down; four quarter hold down.
kamiza Divine seat or upper seat. The area at the front of the Dojo where the instructors and honored guests sit.  Place of honor.
kancho Head of a Martial Arts system.
kanji Chinese writing characters.
kansetsu Bone joint
kansetsu waza  Joint locking  and joint attacking techniques.
karada Body. (tai)
karate Empty hand; Chinese hand; predominant system of empty-handed Martial Arts.
karate-do The Way of Karate. This implies not only the physical aspect of Karate, but also the mental and social aspects of Karate.
karateka One who practices Karate.
kata Forms; Japanese term describing traditional method of passing on information and training methods using a series of prescribed motions and techniques in a prearranged order.
karate kata
     Anaku Meaning; Small bird form.  The creator and origin are unknown.  Also known as Ananku.
     Buto 1 Meaning; unknown.  The creator is unknown.   Possibly of Hawaiian Kenpo origin.
     Chinte Meaning; Strange hands.  The creator is unknown.  Also known as Shoin
     Chinto Meaning; Crane on a rock. Creator unknown.  A very old kata practiced by Matsumura sensei and revised by Itosu sensei.  Also known as Gankaku
     Dan Enn Sho Meaning; Cutting and clawing.  The creator is unknown.   This kata is of Chinese origin derived from the teachings of Li Tsun I of the Hopi school.
     Gekisai Meaning; Destroy and demolish.  Created by Chojun Miyagi in 1940.  There are two kata in this name group, -ichi and –ni.
     Go Uke Meaning; Five blocks.  Created by Verne Gilbert in 2001.  Taught exclusively at the Kazoku Budokan dojo at 7th kyu, (yellow belt).
     Gopeisho Meaning; Attacking peacock.  The creator is unknown.  This kata is of Chinese origin derived from the teachings of Li Tsun I of the Hopi school.
     Jion Meaning; Buddhist monk.  Of Chinese origin it is
thought that this kata is named after the Buddhist Jion temple where monks practiced martial arts. 
     Jiin Meaning; Temple Grounds.  Of Chinese origin.  Possibly related to the kata Jion.
     Jitte Meaning; Ten Hands.  The creator is unknown.  Thought to have been designed to defend against a bo staff attack.
     Karumpha Meaning; unknown.  The creator is unknown.   Possibly of Hawaiian Kenpo origin.
     Karumpha Dai Meaning; Unknown.  Created by Verne Gilbert in 2001.  Taught exclusively at the Kazoku Budokan dojo at 2nd kyu, (brown belt).  Also spelled Karumfa Dai
     Kururunfa Meaning; Hold position and suddently break and destroy.  The creator is unknown.  Of Chinese origin.
     Kushanku Meaqning;  Looking into the sky.  Author unknown.  It is believed to be based on the teachings of the 18th century Chinese instructor Kung Hsiang Chun.  Also known as Kanku.  There are two versions of this kata.  The orginal -dai and -sho as created by Anko Itosu
     Naihanchi Meaning; Iron horse.  It is believed by some that Anko Itosu created this series of 3 kata from a much older and longer kata known as Naifunchin.  Funakoshi sensei renamed this series Tekki.
     Nan Dan Sho Meaning; 24 Steps.  The creator is unknown.  Of Chinese origin.  Alson known as Niseishi and  Nijushiho.
     Omoto Ten No Kata Meaning; The kata of the universe.  Created by Yoshitaka Funakoshi in 1941.
     Passai Meaning; To storm a castle.  There are any versions of this kata.  The original is thought to have been created by Oyadomari Peichin.  Also known as Bassai the sho and dai versions.
     Pinan Meaning;  Peaceful mind.  Created by Anko Itosu between 1902 and 1907.  There are five kata in this name group.  Itosu sensei may have derived these five kata from the much longer kata Kushanku (Kanku).  Funakoshi sensei renamed these kata Heian.
     Rohai Meaning; Vision of a crane.  The original kata was created by Kosaku Matsumora of Tomari-te.  Later Anko Itosu created three additional kata based on the original. 
     Saifa Meaning; To smash and tear. The creator is unknown.  Of Chinese origin.
     Sanchin Meaning; Three battles. The creator is unknown.  A very old kata of Chinese origin.
     Sanseiru Meaning; 36 Hands. The creator is unknown.  Of Chinese origin.
     Seipai Meaning; 18 Hands. The creator is unknown.  Of Chinese origin.
     Seisan  Meaning; 13 Hands.  The creator is unknown.  Of Chinese origin.   Also known as; Seishan and Hangetsu  (Half moon kata).
     Seiunchin Meaning; Attack, conquer and suppress. The creator is unknown.  Of Chinese, Hsing I origin.  There are no kick in this kata.
     Shi So Chin Meaning; Four direction battle. The creator is unknown.  Of Chinese origin.
     Sochin Meaning; Strongly rooted.  Created by Yoshitaka Funakoshi in the 1930’s.  Also known as Hakko.
     Suparinpei Meaning; 108 Hands. The creator is unknown.  Of Chinese origin.  Also known as Pechurin
     Taikyoku Meaning; Basic form or first cause.  Created by Gichin Funakoshi in 1920.  There are 3 kata in this name group.
     Tensho Meaning; Rotating hands. Created by Chojun Miyagi. Possibly derived from the kata Rokkishu of Chinese origin.
     Useshi Meaning; 54 steps.  The creator is unknown.  Possiblly of Chinese origin.  Also known as Gojushiho and Hotaku.
     Unsu Meaning; Cloud hands.  The creator is unknown.  It is thought to have been taught to Bushi Matsumura by a shipwrecked Chinese sailor.  Also known as Unshu
     Wankan Meaning; King’s crown. The creator and origin are unknown.  Also known as Okan
     Wanshu Meaning; Flying Swallow.  The origins of this kata can be traced to the Chinese envoy Wang Ji who visited Okinawa in 1683.  Also known as Wansu, Enpi and Empi
kata Shoulder
kata gatame Single shoulder hold down, similar to Kesa-Gatame; also refers to a choke from this position.
kata guruma Shoulder wheel. throw.
kata-ha-jime Single wing strangle.
kata-juji-jime Half cross strangle; one palm up, four fingers grip, one palm down, thumb grip.
katakana A Japanese writing system.
katame-waza Grappling techniques.
katsu System of resuscitation
keage Snap (kick).
keiko te Chicken beak hand
keiko uke Chicken head wrist block.
kekomi Thrust (kick).
kempo Fist Law. A generic term to describe fighting systems that uses the fist. In this regard, karate is also Kempo. See Kenpo.
ken Fist.
ken Sword. (tsurugi)
kendo The way of the sword, a Japanese martial art.
kendoka Kendo practitioner, fencer.
kenpo Fist Law. A modern term describing one of the more innovative Martial Arts practiced in Hawaii and the Americas, developed by Ed Parker.  See Kempo.
kensei The technique with silent kiai. Related to meditation.
keri Kick. (-geri)
keri waza Kicking techniques
kesa Scarf.
kesa geri Diagonal kick
kesa-gatame Scarf-hold position, collar hold down, headlock position.
ki Spirit or inner strength Ideally, the mental and spiritual power summoned through concentration and breathing that can be applied to accomplish physical feats.  See Chi.
kiai Yell or shout, sprit yell.
kiba dachi Staddle Stance or Horse Stance.   Also known as naifanchi or naihanchi dachi.
kihon Basics or fundamentals
kihon kumite Basic sparring
kihon waza Basic or fundamental techniques
kime Focus of power.
kimono A T-shaped, straight-lined robe.
kiostuke Attention (command)
kizami tsuki Jab, (kizami zuki)
ko Small, little, tiny.
koko uchi Tiger mouth hand strike
ko soto gari Minor outside reaping throw
ko uchi gari Minor inside reaping throw
kobudo Weapons way. A generic term coined in the 20th century, which can be used to describe collectively all Okinawan combatives. However, it is more accurate to specify "Okinawan Kobudo" in order to distinguish them from "Japanese Kobudo.
kohai A student junior to oneself.
kokutsu dachi A stance which has most of the weight to the back. "Back Stance".
komi Crowd into, go into.
konbonwa Good evening
konnichiwa Good afternoon, hello
korewa Here
kosa dachi Crossed leg stance
koshi Hip (s) (-goshi)
koshi-guruma Hip wheel throw.
koshi-nage Hip throw.
koshi-waza Hip throw techniques
ko-soto-gake Foot hook.
ko-soto-gari Small outside reap.
ko-tsuri-goshi From Judo, a form of hip throw.
ko-uchi-gari From Judo, minor inner reaping.
ku Significant concept of nothingness, void.
ku Nine, 9
kudan Ninth degree black belt.
kukyu Ninth level student level.  Beginner.
kubi Neck
kubi nage Neck throw
kubi-shime A choke hold.
kumade Bear paw hand
kumite Sparring, fighting; a formalized match or sparring session that takes place in the dojo or at a tournament, as opposed to a street fight.
kung fu A generic term for a majority of the Chinese Martial Arts. Kung Fu has two major divisions. The southern styles display a clear preference for techniques of strength and power, whereas the northern styles employ soft, open movement.
kuzushi Off-balancing; breaking opponent's posture.
kuzushi waza Techniques that break an opponent's balance before executing the throw.
kyokushinkai Karate style founded by Oyama Masutatsu.
kyoshi A Japanese Martial Arts teacher who is sixth- or seventh-degree black belt rank.
kyoto Old capital of Japan
kyu A rank designation signifying a level of achievement below black belt or Dan rank in the Martial Arts.
kyu Bow, curved, arched.
kyudo Way of the bow. The modern practice of archery as a discipline of coordinated integration. Kyudo's basis is the clarity of execution, the poise, and the control over the bow.
kyusho Vitals, tender spot, pressure point
kyusho waza Pressure Point techniques.
kyusho-jutsu Use of pressure points.
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M  
ma Interval, space, place, between, during.
ma-ai Combat engagement distance.
mae Denoting the front, forward, frontal direction.
mae ashi geri Front leg kick
mae empi uchi Forward elbow strike.  (mae hiji ate)
mae geri Front kick.  A kick to the front.
mae tobi geri Jumping front kick
mae tsuki Front punch.  Punch to front, (mae zuki)
mae ude Forearm
mae uke Front block.  Block to front.
makiwara Literally:  Wrapping around. Striking board often wrapped with cloth or rope used in traditional karate for toughening the knuckles and hardening punches.
manabu Learning by imitating. A method of studying movement and techniques by following and imitating the instructor.  To study indepth.
manako Eye
mata Groin
matte Stop, halt, cease action.
mawaru to turn, to revolve, to spin
mawashi Circle around, curving.
mawashi geri Round kick; roundhouse kick.
mawashi hiji ate Circular elbow Strike. Also referred to as mawashi empi uchi.
mawashi tsuki Round punch  (mawashi zuke)
mawashi uke Round block.  Technique of using both hands in a circular motion to block and attack.
mawatte Turn around.
men The face.
meijin Expert. One who has mastered an art far beyond the boundaries of physical prowess.
migi Right
mikazuki geri Cresent kick
mimi Ear
mokuso Quiet thought. A quiet form of meditation.
momo Thigh
morote tsuki Double fist punch, (morote zuke)
morote uke Augmented forearm block
morote-seoi-nage Two arms shoulder throw.
mu Nothing. The Zen nothingness or emptiness. This principle is often used in the Japanese Martial Arts to make one clear in the mind of all thought so the body will respond instantly to any situation.
mudansha A martial arts student who has not yet attained the rank of black belt.
mune Chest
mushin No-mindedness. Bushido ideal, concept of perfect, thoughtless action, spontaneous and devoid of hesitation or preconception.
musubi dachi Open feet attention stance, heel together.
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N  
nagashi uke Sweeping block.
nage Throw, cast, fling, pitch.
nage waza Throwing techniques
naihanchi dachi Straddle stance or horse stance.  See kiba dachi  (naifanchi dachi).
nakadaka ippon ken Middle finger one knuckle fist
nami-juji-jime Normal cross strangle.
nana Seven, 7.  See shichi.
nana-dan Seventh degree black belt.
naname Slanting, sloping, inclined.
narande A command to line up.
negashi uke Sweeping block
nekoashi dachi Cat stance
ni Two, 2
nidan Second degree black belt.
nidan geri Double kick
nihon tsuki Double punch. (nihon zuke)
nikyu Second highest beginner grade.
ninja Agents of espionage and assassination.
ninjutsu The Art practiced by the Ninja of feudal Japan.
noboru To rise, to ascend
noboru tsuki Upper cut punch, (noboru zuki)
nodo Throat.
nukite Spearhand
nunchaku Flail; a pair of equal length short sticks, from 8" to more than a foot long, connected by rope or chain, swung for momentum and power. These are employed singly or in pairs, and are one of the traditional okinawan kobudo weapons.
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O  
o Big, great, vast, large, high.
o-soto gari Major outside reaping throw
o-uchi gari Major inside reaping throw
obi Belt.
obi-otoshi Belt drop.
o-goshi Major hip throw.
o-guruma Large wheel throw
ohayo Good morning
ohayo gozaimasu Good morning
oi tsuki Stepping or lunge punch. (oi zuke)
okinawa te Karate
okuri ashi harai Sliding (or gathering) foot sweep
okuri eri jime Sliding collar throw
okuri-ashi Advancing with the front foot first, then rear foot.
okuri-ashi-harai Sweeping ankle throw.
okuri-eri-jime Sliding collar strangle.
onegai shimasu I welcome you to train with me, or literally, I make a request. This is said to one's partner when initiating practice.
oni ken Extended middle knuckle fist.
osae uke Pressing block
osae waza Hold down techniques.
o-sensei Revered teacher.
o-soto-guruma Large outer wheel.
o-soto-otoshi Large outer drop.
otoshi Fall, drop.
otoshi empi uke Downward elbow block (otshi hiji ate)
otoshi uke Dropping block
o-tsuri-goshi A form of hip throw.
oyasuminasai Good night
oyayubi Thumb
oyo waza Applications interpreted from techniques in Kata, implicated according to a given condition.
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P  
peichin An Okinawan feudal title bestowed upon a Samurai by a lord for distinguished services rendered.
Q  
qi Energy, see chi, ki.
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R  
randori Free style training.
reigi Etiquette. Also referred to as reishiki. Observance of proper etiquette at all times.
reinoji dachi A stance with feet making an L-shape.
ren tsuki Alternate punching
renshi A person who has mastered oneself.  This person is considered an expert instructor.
renshu Practice
renzoku Continuous, repeated; continuity, succession.
riken Backfist.
ritsurei Standing bow
rokudan Sixth degree black belt.
rokyu Sixth kyu.
ronin Masterless samurai.
ryu School of thought, approach, method of, with a tradition, masters, adherents
ryuha A smaller division than ryu.
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S  
sagi ashi dachi One leg stance. also referred to as gankaku dachi or tsuru ashi dachi.
sai Okinawan weapon.
saika tanden The body's natural center of balance, about 2 inches below the navel. See hara.
samurai The swordsmen of feudal Japan who were trained in a wide variety of martial arts practices.
san Three, 3
sanbon kumite Three step sparring.
sanchin-dachi Hour glass stance.
sandan Third degree black belt
san-kaku Triangle.
sankaku jime Triangle choke..
san-kyu Third kyu.
sanren tsuki Three consecutive punches
sasae-tsuri-komi-ashi Propping ankle throw.
sassuru The ability to recognize a threat or an attack just as it begins; preemptive awareness.
seiken Forefist, the punching knuckles of a fist.
seiken tsuki Forefist strike, (seiken zuki)
seiryuto Ox-jaw hand
seiryuto uke Ox-jaw Block
seishin Mind, soul, or spirit.
seito Pupil or student.
seiza A proper sitting position. Sitting on one's knees.
sempai Senior. Usually denotes any senior by age, rank, position or social standing, but also pertaining to martial arts, one who has more experience and higher rank.
sen Thousand, 1000.
sensei Teacher, instructor, mentor. sen = before, sei = born.
senshin Undivided attention, concentration.
seoi-nage Shoulder throw.
seoi-otoshi Shoulder drop.
setsuzoku Connect, fluidity and continuity.
shaolin Young forest or small forest. A method of Kung Fu based on eight postures and five animal forms dragon, snake, tiger, crane and leopard.
shi Four, 4. (yon)
shiai A competitive match between martial artists.
shichi Seven, 7. (nana)
shihan A formal title meaning, approximately, "master instructor." A teacher of teachers.
shikko Knee walking. A method of moving forward while keeping one knee constantly on the ground. Knee walking was originally a polite way of moving in a house, especially before a lord.
shiko dachi Square stance
shime To strangle, constrict, wring. (-jime)
shime-waza Strangulation techniques, chokes.
shinai A training sword made of three specially cut slats of bamboo, tied together at the handle, middle and tip, often with a small wooden or plastic hand guard, denoting the end of the blade and the beginning of the handle. This is a tool used in kendo for arm
shintai Body movement
shintai uke Body defense
shita Under, below, beneath. (ge)
shita-hara From below.
shizentai Natural position. An encompassing term for numerous Karate stances in which the body remains relaxed but alert.
shodan First degree black belt.
shomen Front or forward. Often refers to the front wall of a Dojo.
shoshin Beginner's mind.
shoshinsha Novice or beginner.
shotei Palm heel.
shotei uchi Palm heel strike
shotei uke Palm heel block
shuto Knife hand.
shuto uchi Knife hand strike
shuto uke Knife hand block
sochin dachi Diagonal straddle-leg stance
sokuto The knife-edge of the foot.
sokuto keage geri Snap kick with edge of foot
soto Outside. Denotes an outside to inside technique.\
soto tenkan Spinning to the outside.
soto uchi Strike from outside inward.
soto uke Block from outside inward
soyonara Goodbye
suki Crack, split, opening for an attack.
sukui uke Scooping block.
sukui-nage Scoop throw.
sumimasen Excuse me.
sumi-otoshi Corner drop, a throwing technique.
sumo A basic Japanese form of grappling in which the participants are of gigantic proportions. Victory is either achieved by forcing the opponent out of the ring, or by forcing him to touch the floor within the ring with any part of his body above the knee.
sune uke Shin block.
sutemi Sacrifice, concept of abandoning concern for the body, letting go.
sutemi-waza Sacrifice techniques.
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T  
tachi Standing, stance. (-dachi)
tachi-waza Standing techniques.
tai Body. (karada)
tai chi chuan Grand ultimate fist. An internal system of Kung Fu, also called soft boxing, characterized by its deliberately slow, continuous, circular, well-balanced and rhythmic movements.
tai sabaki Body movement/shifting/pivoting
tai subaki no kihon Basics of Body Movement
tai-atari Hit with the body, body contact.
tai-otoshi Body drop throw.
tan tien Chinese, The psychic center located just below the naval, which protects the center of gravity and produces a reservoir of force upon which to draw. Also known as Tanden.  See Hara
tanden Area below the navel and the center of ki
tani-otoshi Valley drop throw
tatami Straw mat. A mat usually measuring three by six feet and three inches thick (with bound straw inside.)
tate Vertical
tate empi uchi Vertical elbow strike
tate shuto uke Vertical knife hand block
tate tsuki Vertical fist punch (tate zuke)
te Hand.
te osae uke Hand pressing block.
tegumi A form of Okinawan wrestling.
tettsui uchi Hammer strike, also called kentsui.
tekubi Wrist
te-waza Hand techniques
tobi geri Jumping kick
tobi yoko geri Jumping side kick
tomoe Comma shape
tomoe-nage Circle throw. A sacrificial throw involving throwing one's opponent over oneself moving from standing to a prone position.
tora te Tiger claw hand
tonfa Handle. An old Okinawan farming tool developed as a weapon by Okinawan farmers.
tori Defender
tsuki Punch, (zuki).
tsuki waza Punching techniques
tsuri-goshi Lifting hip throw.
tsuru ashi dachi Crane stance, also referred to as gankaku dachi and sagi ashi dachi.
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U  
uchi Strike.
uchi Inside.
uchi deshi A live-in student. A student who lives in a dojo and devotes him/herself both to training and to the maintenance of the dojo (and sometimes to personal service to the sensei of the dojo).
uchi tenkan Spinning to the inside.
uchi uke Block from inside to outward
uchi waza Striking techniques
uchi-komi Training of entry movement.
uchi-mata Inner thigh sweep.
ude Arm.
ude uke Forearm block
ude-gatame Straight armlock.
ude-kansetsu-waza Arm locking techniques.
ude-kime-nage Arm bar throw.
uechi ryu An Okinawan style of Karate founded by Kanbum Uechi. It is characterized by linear patterns and forceful breathing.
uke Receiver of the technique (attacker).
uke Block
ukemi Breakfalls, falling techniques, methods of falling rolling and landing safely often taught in grappling-based Martial Arts.
ukemi waza Breakfall techniques.
uke-nagashi Flowing reception, sliding block.
uki To float, drift, waft.
uki-goshi Floating hip throw.
ura tsuki An upper cut punch used at close range. (ura zuki)
uraken Backfist.
uraken uchi Back fist strike
ushiro Back, rear, rearward, from behind.
ushiro empi uchi Rear elbow strike
ushiro geri Back kick.
ushiro-goshi Rear hip throw.
uwagi Uniform jacket
W  
waza Technique.
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Y  
yama tsuki Mountain Punch. A wide U-shaped dual punch, (yama zuki)
yari Straight-headed spear. (sojutsu)
yasumi "Rest." A term used by the instructor to have the students relax, normally following a long series of drills.
yawara Palm stick, used in self defense; also the technique of giving way used in Bushido.
yoi Ready
yoko Side
yoko geri Side kick
yoko uchi Side strike
yoko-guruma Side wheel throw
yoko-okuri-eri-jime Side sliding collar strangle.
yoko-shiho-gatame Side four quarter hold down; cross body position.
yoko-sutemi-waza Sideways sacrifice throws.
yon Four, 4. (shi)
yondan Fourth degree black belt.
yonkyu Fourth kyu
yubi Finger
yudansha Black belt holder (any rank).
yuka To duck or bow.
yukkuri onegaishimasu Slowly please
yurui Slack, slow, leisurely.
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Z  
za Seat, base, sitting.
zarei The traditional Japanese bow from the kneeling position.
zazen Sitting meditation.
zen A buddhist sect.
zenkutsu dachi Forward (front) stance.
zori Japanese slippers.
Zuki Punch, see  tsuki
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