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Judo Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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judo

[ˈdʒuːdoʊ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

martial art

Judo is a modern martial art that originated in Japan and focuses on throwing and grappling techniques. It emphasizes the principle of using an opponent's force against them rather than relying on one's own strength. Practitioners, known as judokas, wear a special uniform called a judogi. Judo can also be a competitive sport and has been included in the Olympic Games since 1964. The discipline promotes physical fitness, self-defense skills, and mental focus.

Synonyms

combat sport, grappling, martial art.

Examples of usage

  • She practices judo every week.
  • Judo helped him to build confidence.
  • He won a medal in the judo competition.
  • Judo techniques can be useful for self-defense.
  • She teaches judo to children.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • Judo was developed in the late 19th century by Jigoro Kano, who sought to create a modern martial art from jujutsu.
  • The first official judo school was established in 1882, marking the formal beginnings of the sport in Japan.
  • Kano presented judo as an educational tool, emphasizing moral and physical development along with competition.

Cultural Significance

  • Judo is not just a sport; it's also a way to instill values like respect, discipline, and humility.
  • It gained international popularity after being included in the Olympics for the first time in 1964, showcasing its global appeal.
  • Judo has inspired various martial arts and practices around the world, adapting into different forms and styles.

Training and Techniques

  • Practitioners learn techniques such as throws, pins, and joint locks, emphasizing safety and control in every move.
  • Judo classes often involve sparring, which helps develop quick thinking and adaptability under pressure.
  • Belts of varying colors indicate levels of expertise, starting from white for beginners to black for advanced practitioners.

Health and Fitness

  • Training in judo improves physical fitness, coordination, and flexibility, making it beneficial for overall health.
  • The sport is known to enhance mental health by promoting stress relief through focused physical activity.
  • Judo can also boost self-confidence; practitioners learn to face challenges both physically and mentally.

Origin of 'judo'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'judo' comes from Japanese, meaning 'the gentle way,' highlighting the technique's focus on balance and control.
  • The term reflects a philosophy of using an opponent's strength against them, rather than simply overpowering them.

The word 'judo' comes from the Japanese characters '柔' (ju), meaning 'gentle' or 'yielding', and '道' (do), meaning 'way' or 'path'. Judo was developed in 1882 by Jigoro Kano, who sought to create a system of physical education and moral philosophy through martial arts. Kano combined techniques from various traditional Japanese jiu-jitsu schools to form what he believed to be a more refined and scientific approach to unarmed combat. Judo quickly gained popularity in Japan and began to spread worldwide. The establishment of the Kodokan Judo Institute in Tokyo played a crucial role in promoting and organizing judo as a distinct discipline. By the early 20th century, judo had made its way to Europe and the United States, eventually being recognized as an Olympic sport. The philosophy of judo not only focuses on physical techniques but also on mental training and the development of character.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,777 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.