sensei

noun

sen·​sei ˈsen-ˌsā How to pronounce sensei (audio)
plural sensei or senseis
: a teacher or instructor usually of Japanese martial arts (such as karate or judo)

Examples of sensei in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Del Toro plays Bob’s sensei and teaches him how to live without fear — and pushes him out of a speeding car. Matt Minton, Variety, 27 Mar. 2025 In the Karate Kid films, John is a Vietnam war veteran and the no-nonsense sensei at the Cobra Kai Dojo. Kayla Grant, People.com, 13 Feb. 2025 In act one, Miyagi-Do starts off poorly, outclassed by the Iron Dragons and their team of international fighters, including a three-time champ for a sensei. Ben Rosenstock, Vulture, 15 Nov. 2024 John trained Johnny and feuded with Daniel's sensei, Mr. Miyagi. Kayla Grant, People.com, 13 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for sensei

Word History

Etymology

Japanese, teacher, master

First Known Use

1874, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of sensei was in 1874

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Sensei.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sensei. Accessed 4 Apr. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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