judo
UK[ˈdʒuːdəʊ]US[ˈdʒuːdoʊ]
n
a modern sport developed from jujitsu that involves using holds and leverage to throw or pin an opponent.
n
the system or principles of this sport, emphasizing using an opponent's strength against them.
Etymology
the word "judo" was borrowed directly from japanese in the late 19th century. it is a compound formed from the japanese elements "ju" (柔), meaning "gentle, soft, yielding," and "do" (道), meaning "way, path, principle." the term was coined by jigoro kano around 1882 to name his refined martial system, which he developed from the older, more combative "jujitsu." the name encapsulates the core philosophy of the discipline: the "gentle way" of using flexibility, balance, and an opponent's force to achieve victory, rather than relying on brute strength. its adoption into english reflects the global spread and popularization of the sport.
Analysis
this is a loanword from japanese, adopted as a single lexical unit in english. it is not productively segmented using english or classical morphemes.
Examples
she earned a black belt in judo after years of dedicated practice.
the principles of judo can be applied to conflict resolution in everyday life.
he used a classic judo throw to win the match.