judo

noun

ju·​do ˈjü-(ˌ)dō How to pronounce judo (audio)
: a sport developed from jujitsu that emphasizes the use of quick movement and leverage to throw an opponent
judoist noun

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Judo is a martial art that emphasizes the use of quick movement and leverage to throw an opponent. Its techniques are generally intended to turn an opponent's force to one's own advantage rather than to oppose it directly. The opponent must be thrown cleanly, pinned, or mastered through the application of pressure to arm joints or the neck. Judo evolved out of the older martial art jujitsu in late-19th-century Japan, but it is now practiced primarily as sport. It became an Olympic sport for men in 1964; women's judo was added in 1992.

Examples of judo in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Meanwhile, others drew comparisons with Russian President Vladimir Putin, who is known for posting photos of himself engaged in sports such as judo and horseback riding. Jack Guy, CNN, 21 Mar. 2024 At only 34 years old, 'La Mole' left for eternity, born in the capital, who stood out as a member of our national judo team, achieving two titles and a Pan American silver, all in the -63kg category. Natasha Dye, Peoplemag, 25 Jan. 2024 See all Example Sentences for judo 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'judo.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Japanese jūdō, from weakness, gentleness + art

First Known Use

1889, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of judo was in 1889

Dictionary Entries Near judo

Cite this Entry

“Judo.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/judo. Accessed 31 May. 2024.

Kids Definition

judo

noun
ju·​do ˈjüd-ō How to pronounce judo (audio)
plural judos
: a sport developed from jujitsu in which opponents attempt to throw each other by using quick movements and leverage

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