jiujitsu

1 of 2

noun (1)

jiu·​jit·​su jü-ˈjit-(ˌ)sü How to pronounce jiujitsu (audio)

less common spelling of jujitsu

: an art of weaponless fighting employing holds, throws, and paralyzing blows to subdue or disable an opponent

jujitsu

2 of 2

noun (2)

ju·​jit·​su
variants or less commonly jujutsu or jiujitsu
jü-ˈjit-(ˌ)sü How to pronounce jujitsu (audio)
: an art of weaponless fighting employing holds, throws, and paralyzing blows to subdue or disable an opponent

Examples of jiujitsu in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Noun
In South Africa’s largest city, Johannesburg, Tatiana Leyka, 33, took up the martial art of jiujitsu for self-defense, well aware of South Africa’s reputation. — ABC News, 6 Mar. 2026 Like wrestling, jiujitsu emphasizes takedowns, control and submission holds instead of punches or kicks. — Patrick Z. McGavin, Chicago Tribune, 16 Feb. 2026
Noun
Lou long ago gave up the sport but Mario still practices jujitsu. — Dana O’Neil, CNN Money, 17 Jan. 2026 Zodiac Killer Project starts as an autopsy of a fail, and ends up dismantling the subgenre via a sort of cinematic jujitsu. — David Fear, Rolling Stone, 21 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for jiujitsu

Word History

Etymology

Noun (2)

Japanese jūjutsu, from jū weakness, gentleness + jutsu art, skill

First Known Use

Noun (2)

1875, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of jiujitsu was in 1875

Rhymes for jiujitsu

See All Rhymes for jiujitsu

Browse Nearby Words

jittery
jiujitsu
Jiulong
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Cite this Entry

“Jiujitsu.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/jiujitsu. Accessed 15 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

jiujitsu

variants or jiujutsu

variant of jujitsu

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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