judo

American  

[joo-doh] / ˈdʒu doʊ /

noun

1. a method of defending oneself or fighting without the use of weapons, based on jujitsu but differing from it in banning dangerous throws and blows and stressing the athletic or sport element.

2. the sport of fighting by this method.

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adjective

1. of or relating to this fighting method or sport.

judo British  

/ ˈdʒuːdəʊ /

noun

1. 1. the modern sport derived from jujitsu, in which the object is to throw, hold to the ground, or otherwise force an opponent to submit, using the minimum of physical effort

   2. ( as modifier )

      a judo throw

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Usage

What is judo? Judo is a martial art and unarmed self-defense system focused on throwing or pinning with a minimum amount of physical effort. It is based on jujitsu.Judo is also a sport and an event in the Summer Olympic Games.In the sport of judo, the object is to score points by throwing or pinning one’s opponent. Names of points awarded for different kinds of throws or holds include yuko and waza-ari. A point known as an ippon is awarded to a competitor who displays perfect technique and results in an automatic victory in the match. A minor penalty is called a shido. A major penalty is known as a hansoku-make and results in disqualification.Many of the throwing techniques used in judo have been adopted in other sparring sports, including in mixed martial arts.A person who practices or competes in judo can be called a judoka.Example: I practice judo, but not competitively—just for self defense and exercise.

Other Word Forms

• judoist noun

Etymology

Origin of judo

1885–90; < Japanese jūdō < Middle Chinese, equivalent to Chinese róu soft + dào way

Example Sentences

Among the sports being moved are men's football, chess, judo, karate and wrestling.

From Barron's

He first tried sumo aged seven, after also practicing judo and freestyle wrestling.

From BBC

Dancing on stage during rallies in front of thousands of supporters in the political capital, Yamoussoukro, he has taken to doing judo moves to show he is "ready for the job and full of energy".

From BBC

Mixed martial arts is a style of full-contact fighting that combines techniques and styles from various sports, including wrestling, judo and jiu-jitsu — you get the picture.

From Salon

She was driven by trophies and success during her glittering judo career, but has largely been spurred on by her family since starting MMA.

From BBC

Related Words

• karate
• wrestling