karateka

noun

ka·​ra·​te·​ka ˌkä-rä-ˈtā-kä 

kə-ˈrä-tē-ˌkä

plural karatekas

: a practitioner of karate

… one of the few remaining karateka to have trained with the younger Funakoshi.

—Dragon Times, 8 July 1998

Word History

First Known Use

1960, in the meaning defined above

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now