a traditional Japanese system of unarmed combat; sharp blows and kicks are given to pressure-sensitive points on the body of the opponent
"The student practiced karate by delivering precise, sharp blows and kicks to the pressure-sensitive points on his partner's body."
An Okinawan martial art involving primarily punching and kicking, but additionally, advanced throws, arm bars, grappling and all means of fighting.
"After years of training in karate, the black belt demonstrated his mastery by seamlessly combining traditional punches and kicks with an unexpected throw to take down his opponent."
In plain English: Karate is a martial art that uses punches, kicks, and blocks to defend yourself without weapons.
"He practiced karate every afternoon at the local dojo to improve his focus and strength."
Usage: Karate refers specifically to the Japanese martial art known for its emphasis on striking rather than throwing opponents. When used as a verb, it describes attacking someone using these specific punching and kicking techniques.
To attack (somebody or something) with karate or similar techniques.
"The black belt student decided to attack his opponent with a swift high kick using traditional karate techniques."
In plain English: To karate means to strike with your hands and feet using martial arts techniques.
"She decided to karate chop the watermelon in half during her backyard party."
The word karate comes from Japanese and originally meant "Chinese hand." It entered English as a popularized version of the Okinawan term tōdī.