JUDOKA

TileHead’s Word of the Day for 23 July 2012

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Word of the Day:

JUDOKA  (n. pl. -S)

Definition(s):

1. (n.) one who practices judo; a judoist

Useful info for word game players:

• Front hooks: (none)
• Back hooks: -S
• Anagrams: (none)
• Longer extensions: (none)
• Wraparounds: (none)
• Other Spellings: (none)
• Related Forms: JUDO, JUDOIST

Current theme:

Summer Olympics

Epilogue:

Many use the terms JUDO and JUJITSU (also spelled JUJUTSU, JIUJITSU, and JIUJUTSU) interchangeably, but they are technically different.  Jujitsu derives from ju (“soft” or “gentle”) and jutsu (“art” or “skill”) and is a martial art with ancient roots involving holds, throws, and paralyzing blows.  Today there are many different varieties of jujitsu, with varying emphases and teachings.  The most well known and popular variety, judo, derives from ju and do (“way”) and is a modern martial art developed by Japanese master Jigoro Kano (1860-1938) involving holds, throws, and quick movements.  A practitioner of judo may be called a JUDOKA (ju + do + ka “person”) or a JUDOIST.

Judo has been a regular Summer Olympic event since 1964 (with the exception of 1968).  Another popular martial art, TAEKWONDO, was added to the Games in 2000.  Taekwondo is derived from Korean tae (“kick”), plus kwon (“fist”), plus do (“way”), or, more poetically, “the way of kicking and punching.”

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