karate

noun

ka·​ra·​te kə-ˈrä-tē How to pronounce karate (audio)
: a Japanese art of self-defense employing hand strikes and kicks to disable or subdue an opponent
karateist noun

Examples of karate in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Her critique demonstrated true self-awareness that impressed the judges, along with her skills as a director, cinematographer, editor and collaborator — and her 1st Degree Black Belt in karate. Theresa Walker, Oc Register, 14 May 2026 Shivananjappa described her brother-in-law to the Republic as an avid chess player and champion, as well as a black belt in karate. Stephanie Innes, USA Today, 13 May 2026 The 7-year-old participates in art studio programs, Seacrest Studios events and hospital activities while still keeping up with his love of baseball, golf, flag football and karate. Jordan Greene, PEOPLE, 12 May 2026 Remember that extracurricular options here extend well beyond the usual soccer and karate. The Editors, Curbed, 16 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for karate

Word History

Etymology

Japanese, from kara empty + te hand

First Known Use

1926, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of karate was in 1926

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Cite this Entry

“Karate.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/karate. Accessed 22 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

karate

noun
ka·​ra·​te kə-ˈrät-ē How to pronounce karate (audio)
: a Japanese art of self-defense without a weapon
Etymology

from Japanese karate, literally, "empty hand"

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