1.
karate, the way of the empty hand
A Japanese martial art originating from Okinawa that emphasizes striking techniques using punches, kicks, knee strikes, and open-hand techniques. The formal name for what is commonly called 空手.
Forms
空 (empty) + 手 (hand) + 道 (way/path)
The name means "the way of the empty hand," reflecting that it is primarily an unarmed martial art.
Usage
空手道 is the formal name. In everyday conversation, 空手 is more commonly used. The ～道 suffix emphasizes it as a disciplined path of self-improvement, not just a fighting technique.
Major styles
- 松濤館流 (Shotokan)
- 剛柔流 (Goju-ryu)
- 糸東流 (Shito-ryu)
- 和道流 (Wado-ryu)