Aikido
/aɪˈkiːdoʊ/noun
A Japanese martial art that uses throws, locks, and evasive movement to redirect an opponent’s force.
Did you know?The word combines three Sino-Japanese elements—合 (ai, harmony), 気 (ki, vital energy or spirit), and 道 (dō, way), the same “way” found in Tao or Dao.
Etymological Timeline
Classical Chinese
Chinese
合
“To join, combine, or harmonize”
Classical Chinese
Chinese
氣
“Breath, vital energy, or life-force”
Classical Chinese
Chinese
道
“A way, path, method, or teaching”
Early 20th Century
Japanese
合気
“Aiki; harmonizing or coordinating with energy and movement”
1930s–1940s
Japanese
合気道
“Aikidō; the martial discipline named “the way of harmonizing energy””
1942
Japanese
Aikidō
“The official name adopted for the martial art developed by Morihei Ueshiba”