martial art

noun

1. Often martial arts any of the traditional forms of Asian self-defense or combat that utilize physical skill and coordination without weapons, as karate, aikido, judo, or kung fu, often practiced as sport.

martial art

noun

1. any of various philosophies of self-defence and techniques of single combat, such as judo or karate, originating in the Far East

Other Word Forms

• martial artist noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of martial art¹

First recorded in 1890–95

Example Sentences

Active Clubs embed their ideology within apolitical activities such as martial arts and weightlifting.

From Salon

A mixed martial arts fight card to be held next summer at the White House is “absolutely going to happen,” Ultimate Fight Championship Chief Executive Dana White said Tuesday.

From Los Angeles Times

He has knocked out figures such as Max Holloway and Alexander Volkanovski, establishing himself as one of the biggest stars in mixed martial arts.

From Los Angeles Times

In a major early move under new ownership, Paramount acquired the media rights to UFC’s mixed martial arts events in the U.S, the company said Monday.

From Los Angeles Times

Under his leadership, the temple started opening schools outside China and formed a travelling troupe of monks who performed Shaolin kung fu shows - the temple's signature style of martial arts.

From BBC

Related Words

• judo 
• karate 
• wrestling