| 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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To Top |
| 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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To Top |
| 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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To Top |
| 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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To Top |
| 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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To Top |
| 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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To Top |
| 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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To Top |
| 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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To Top |
| 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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