karate

noun

ka·​ra·​te kə-ˈrä-tē 

: a Japanese art of self-defense employing hand strikes and kicks to disable or subdue an opponent

karateist

kə-ˈrä-tē-ist 

noun

Examples of karate in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

After 30 years of practicing Kyokushin karate at an elite level, directing him in Katana is a lifelong dream come true. — Andreas Wiseman, Deadline, 4 Nov. 2026

Norton, who held a 5th dan black belt in Gōjū-ryū karate and a 6th dan black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu, appeared in more than 80 films and TV shows. — Kathleen Perricone, Entertainment Weekly, 30 Oct. 2026

The coach is photographed in a variety of tongue-in-cheek situations such as grilling, taking an ice plunge, beekeeping, working out and doing karate — all while wearing khakis. — Jean E. Palmieri, Footwear News, 14 Sep. 2026

The Harligs decided to establish the Friendship Circle several years later, offering a host of programs designed for people with special needs, including music therapy, karate, dance, arts and crafts and even horseback riding. — Miami Herald, 9 Sep. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Japanese, from kara empty + te hand

First Known Use

1926, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for karate

• dotty
• doughty
• draughty
• haughty
• knotty
• naughty
• potty
• scottie
• spotty
• strati
• zloty
• basmati

Kids Definition

karate

noun

ka·​ra·​te kə-ˈrät-ē 

: a Japanese art of self-defense without a weapon

Etymology

from Japanese karate, literally, "empty hand"