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

The world champion held black belts in karate, taekwondo, tang soo do, Brazilian jiu jitsu, judo and the martial arts discipline he founded himself, chun kuk do.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 20, 2026

Despite decades of unrest, Manipur has built a reputation as one of India's most consistent producers of elite athletes - such as Olympic weightlifter Mirabai Chanu, boxer Mary Kom and judo champion Sushila Devi Likmabam.

From BBC • Feb. 10, 2026

As a child growing up in Vinnytsia, a city of around 350,000 in central Ukraine, Aonishiki—then just Danylo—was first exposed to sumo as a six-year-old at judo practice.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 24, 2026

The oldest person on the list is 102-year-old John Hearn, who receives a BEM for services to judo and to the community in north-east England.

From BBC • Dec. 29, 2025

I put one hand on Annabeth s hip, and she clasped my other hand like she was about to judo throw me.

From "The Titan's Curse" by Rick Riordan

Related Words

• karate
• wrestling