Sumo: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word 'sumo' comes from the Japanese word '相撲' (sumō), which means 'to grapple' or 'to wrestle'.
• Originally, sumo was a Shinto ritual to ensure good harvests, showing its deep-rooted cultural significance.
• The term 'yokozuna,' the highest rank in sumo, signifies 'horizontal rope,' symbolizing the champion's strength and stability.

Cultural Significance

• Sumo matches often start with a ritual that involves salt-throwing, believed to purify the ring and ward off evil spirits.
• Each sumo wrestler has a unique ring name, or 'shikona,' reflecting their personality, characteristics, or lineage.
• The top tournament events, known as 'basho,' attract thousands of fans both in Japan and worldwide, showing the sport's popularity.

Training and Lifestyle

• Sumo wrestlers live in communal training houses called 'heya' where they train, eat, and sleep together.
• A sumo wrestler's diet is rich and calorie-dense, often including a stew called 'chanko-nabe' to gain weight and build strength.
• Training involves rigorous daily exercises focused on techniques, strength, and balance to prepare for competition.

Historical Impact

• Sumo has been practiced for over 1,500 years, evolving from a form of martial arts to the sport we know today.
• Historical records suggest that sumo was performed as early as the 6th century during the reign of the Yamato dynasty.
• The first official sumo tournament was held in 1684 in Edo (now Tokyo), marking its popularization and formalization.

Pop Culture

• In modern media, sumo is featured in anime, video games, and movies, introducing the sport to younger audiences.
• The image of sumo wrestlers has become an iconic representation of Japan, often seen in tourist merchandise and advertisements.
• Popular wrestlers have achieved celebrity status, appearing on television shows and acting in films, bridging tradition and modern entertainment.

This word's position of #33,967 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

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