# martial art

CEFR B1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/martial-art
Updated: 2026-07-28

## Definition

a traditional style of fighting or self-defense, such as karate or judo. Many people practice these today for exercise, discipline, or personal safety.

For teachers: any of several traditional systems of combat and self-defence, typically originating from East Asia, practised for various reasons including sport, physical health, and mental development.

## Examples

- She practices a different martial art every evening after work.
- After years of training in this specific martial art, he finally earned his black belt.
- The curriculum incorporates various martial arts, blending the striking techniques of Muay Thai with the grappling maneuvers of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to provide a comprehensive self-defence education.

## Usage notes

- Typically used in the plural ('martial arts') when referring to the subject in general, but countable when referring to a specific style.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.