# shuriken

/ˈʃʊɹɪkən/ (US) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/shuriken
Updated: 2026-09-28

## Definition

a small, sharp weapon from Japan that is shaped like a star. You throw it by hand, and it is often called a 'ninja star'.

For teachers: a traditional Japanese concealed weapon that is thrown by hand, typically shaped like a star or a spike. Often associated with ninjutsu, it is designed to distract or wound rather than deliver a fatal blow.

## Examples

- The museum displays a collection of ancient shuriken.
- In many martial arts films, the hero uses a shuriken to disarm an opponent from a distance.
- While popular culture often depicts the shuriken as a primary lethal weapon, historical accounts suggest it was more frequently employed as a tactical tool for harassment or creating opportunities for escape.

## Usage notes

- The plural form can be either 'shuriken' or 'shurikens'.

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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.