martial art

noun

: any of several arts of combat and self-defense (such as karate and judo) that are widely practiced as sport

martial artist noun

Examples of martial art in a Sentence

He was trained in the martial arts.

Recent Examples on the Web

In November 2025, Palmer reported suffering injuries to his ribs and abdomen while performing martial arts training at the police department’s training center, the arrest warrant affidavit said. — Staff Report, Hartford Courant, 23 Aug. 2026

Some television and film stars — including martial arts legend Jet Li — have starred in microdramas. — Simone McCarthy, CNN Money, 22 Aug. 2026

Ambitious projects include creating the new World American Football League, where players would own equity in teams, as well as Knockout Fights, a boxing and martial arts platform. — Jill Goldsmith, Deadline, 21 Aug. 2026

The actor is a longtime fan of anime and manga and is also extremely proficient in martial arts. — Mia Galuppo, HollywoodReporter, 20 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1904, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for martial art

• counterpart
• apart
• depart
• flowchart
• forepart
• impart
• pushcart
• rampart
• redstart
• restart
• subpart
• sweetheart

Kids Definition

martial art

noun

: any of several arts of combat and self-defense (as karate and judo) that are widely practiced as a sport

martial artist noun