Karateists

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. Individuals proficient in a martial art that emphasizes striking techniques using punches, kicks, and knee strikes
2. practitioners who train rigorously in physical and mental discipline through this combat sport
3. enthusiasts dedicated to mastering techniques and philosophies associated with traditional Japanese martial arts

Etymology: "Karateists" is simply the plural of "karateist," a noun formed in English by adding the agentive suffix "-ist" to "karate." "Karate" itself comes from Japanese "karate" (空手), literally "empty hand," written with the characters for "empty" and "hand," a name that refers to fighting without a weapon. The "-ist" suffix comes from Greek "-istes," used to denote a person who practices or follows something, as in "pianist" or "cyclist." Forms like "karateist" are common in English for practitioners of a discipline, though "karateka" is the Japanese term and "karate practitioner" is often used in English as well.

Synonyms: karateka, karate practitioner, martial artist