karate
UK[kəˈrɑːti]US[kəˈrɑːti]
n
a japanese system of unarmed combat using the hands and feet to deliver and block blows, widely practiced as a sport.
Etymology
the word 'karate' entered english in the 20th century as a direct borrowing from japanese. in japanese, the term is written with two kanji characters: 空手, which literally translate to 'empty hand'. this name reflects the art's core principle of unarmed self-defense. the term elegantly encapsulates the philosophy of the discipline, moving from the literal meaning of 'empty hand' in japanese to the modern english meaning denoting the specific martial art and sport.
Analysis
this is a loanword from japanese, adopted as a simplex unit into english. it does not contain separable morphemes within the english spelling system.
Examples
she has been practicing karate for five years and recently earned her black belt.
the dojo offers classes in both traditional karate and modern self-defense techniques.
karate emphasizes not only physical strength but also mental discipline and respect.