kata

¹

[ kah-tuh ]

noun

1. an exercise consisting of several of the specific movements of a martial art, especially a pattern prescribed for defending oneself against several attackers, used in judo and karate training.

kata-

²

1. variant of cata-: katabasis; katamorphism.

kata

¹

/ ˈkætə /

noun

1. an exercise consisting of a sequence of the specific movements of a martial art, used in training and designed to show skill in technique

kata-

²

prefix

1. See cata-
   a variant of cata-

Word History and Origins

Origin of kata¹

1950–55; < Japanese: shape, pattern

Word History and Origins

Origin of kata¹

C20: Japanese, literally: shape, pattern

Example Sentences

For the kata, or form, portion of the competition, 20 competitors will demonstrate movements against a virtual enemy.

From Time

Lyra d soi, n d' eg, kai kithara leipetai, kai kata polin chrsima; kai au kat' agrous tois nomeusi syrinx an tis ei.

From Project Gutenberg

Then the preposition kata is added to it, thus making our English word "energy" which means "a working force."

From Project Gutenberg

Enarg gar d kai ta peri tn hydern hamartmata t rhathymia taut kata logon kolouthkota.

From Project Gutenberg

Poson oun estin, ho alloioi, kai d theasmetha; pleon men kata to stoma, meion d' kata to Pg 252Greek text hpar te kai tas phlebas.

From Project Gutenberg

Kai ztsomen kata tonde ton logon, hypo tinn gignetai dynamen auta d tauta kai ei d ti allo physes ergon estin.

From Project Gutenberg

More About Kata

What does kata mean?

A kata is an exhibition of a martial arts skill or movement, especially a pattern of such moves, such as a sequence designed to defend against an attack. Katas are primarily practiced in karate and judo and can be done as part of a competition or as a way of practicing the martial art.

One of the forms of karate practiced as a sport is known as kata. It involves individual competitors performing a rehearsed set of karate techniques (often called forms) before judges. Each kata is intended to demonstrate proper control and understanding of karate technique and movement. There are more than 100 katas recognized in karate competition. The kata form of competitive karate was first included as an Olympic event in the Summer Olympic Games in Tokyo in 2021 (along with the traditional sparring form called kumite).

There are a variety of katas used in judo, including those involving throws (nage-no-kata), grappling and pinning (katame-no-kata), and defending and attacking (itsutsu-no-kata), among others.

The word kata is sometimes used to refer to similar routines outside of martial arts, such as those used in Japanese kabuki theater.

Example: We were never allowed to spar until we completed our daily katas.

Where does kata come from?

The first records of the word kata in English come from the 1950s. It’s directly borrowed from a Japanese word meaning “shape,” “pattern,” or “form.” In karate, specific katas are often referred to as forms.

Katas are associated with Japanese culture and martial arts practices but are believed to trace their origins to ancient Chinese practices developed in the martial art of kung fu. Katas were first developed at a time when martial arts skills were primarily passed on through the repetition of sequences of punching, kicking, and breathing. Karate and karate katas were developed in Okinawa.

Did you know … ?

What are some synonyms for kata?

• form

What are some words that often get used in discussing kata?

• martial arts
• karate
• judo
• discipline
• exercise
• movement
• pattern
• sequence
• score
• skill
• kumite

How is kata used in real life?

The term kata is closely associated with karate and judo. Katas can be performed competitively or as part of the practice of a martial art.

Congrats Malaysia for 2 Golds & 1 Bronze in Karate men's kata, Karate women's -61kg & Karate men's -55kg! #AsianGames2014

— SG SPORTS TV (@sgsportstv) October 3, 2014

The Kime no kata and Goshin Jutsu finals are now taking place. Can Japan repeat their golden showing from day one? #katajudo2015

— Judo (@Judo) September 20, 2015

Good night at the dojo! Started on first kata for Ni Dan! 👍🙌👍

— Ronnie Faisst (@ronniefaisst) May 5, 2015

Try using kata!

True or False?

The sparring form of karate is known as kata.