How the Japanese language influenced English with the word 'karate'

'Karate' is a word borrowed from Japanese 'karate'. The word entered the English language some time around 1947.

karate [noun] [1947]

A Japanese art of self-defense employing hand strikes and kicks to disable or subdue an opponent

See 'karate' on the Loan Words Map

See more loan words from Japanese.

Etymology: Japanese, from 'kara' empty + 'te' hand

See more loan words from 1940s.