Hellenic Aikido Aikikai
Fukushinkan Arcadia Dojo
Aikido Glossary
Fukushinkan Arcadia Dojo
Aikido Glossary
- AGATSU = "Self victory." According to the founder, true victory
- (MASAKATSU) is the victory one achieves over oneself (AGATSU). Thus one of the founder's "slogans" was MASAKATSU AGATSU: "The true victory of self-mastery."
- AI = meeting, joining, harmony.
- AIKIDO = The word "Aikido" is made up of three Japanese characters: AI - harmony, KI - spirit, mind, or universal energy, DO - the Way. Thus Aikido is "the Way of Harmony with Universal Energy." However, AIKI may also be interpreted as "accommodation to circumstances." This latter interpretation is somewhat non- standard, but it avoids certain undesirable metaphysical commitments and also epitomises quite well both the physical and psychological facets of Aikido.
- AIKIDOKA = A practitioner of Aikido.
- AIKIKAI = "Aiki association." A term used to designate the organisation created by the founder for the dissemination of Aikido.
- AIKITAISO = Mind-body co-ordination exercises.
- AI HANMI = Mutual stance where UKE and NAGE each have the same foot forward (right-right, left-left).
- AI NUKE = "Mutual escape." An outcome of a duel where each participant escapes harm. This corresponds to the ideal of Aikido according to which a conflict is resolved without injury to any party involved.
- AI UCHI = "Mutual kill." An outcome of a duel where each participant kills the other. In classical Japanese swordmanship, practitioners were often encouraged to enter a duel with the goal of achieving at least an AI UCHI. The resolution to win the duel even at the cost of one's own life was thought to aid in cultivating an attitude of single-minded focus on the task of cutting down one's opponent. This single-minded focus is exemplified in Aikido in the technique, IKKYO, where one enters into an attacker's range in order to effect the technique.
- ASHI SABAKI = Footwork. Proper footwork is essential in Aikido for developing strong balance and for facilitating ease of movement.
- ATEMI = (lit. Striking the Body) Strike directed at the attacker for purposes of unbalancing or distraction. Atemi is often vital for bypassing or "short-circuiting" an attacker's natural responses to Aikido techniques. The first thing most people will do when they feel their body being manipulated in an unfamiliar way is to retract their limbs and drop their centre of mass down and away from the person performing the technique. By judicious application of atemi, it is possible to create a "window of opportunity" in the attacker's natural defences, facilitating the application of an Aikido technique.
- AWASE = Meeting or coming together.
- AYUMI ASHI = Normal stepping, as in walking.
- BO = Wooden staff, usually 72" in length.
- BOKKEN = BOKUTO = Wooden sword. Many Aikido movements are derived from traditional Japanese fencing. In advanced practice, weapons such as the BOKKEN are used in learning subtleties of certain movements, the relationships obtaining between armed and unarmed techniques, defences against weapons, and the like.
- BOKKEN TORI = Sword taking technique; also called TACHITORI.
- BU = Martial.
- BUDO = "Martial way." The Japanese character for "BU" (martial) is derived from characters meaning "stop" and (a weapon like a) "halberd." In conjunction, then, "BU" may have the connotation "to stop the halberd." In Aikido, there is an assumption that the best way to prevent violent conflict is to emphasise the cultivation of individual character. The way (DO) of AIKI is thus equivalent to the way of BU, taken in this sense of preventing or avoiding violence so far as possible.
- BUDOKA = A practitioner of Budo.
- BUSHI = Warrior class.
- BUSHIDO = Way of the warrior.
- BUTSUDAN = "Buddha self"; a Buddhist shrine, often placed at the front of a Dojo influenced by Buddhist tradition.
- CHO = Chief or head.
- CHOKUSEN = Direct. Thus CHOKUSEN NO IRIMI = direct entry.
- CHUDAN = "Middle position." Thus CHUDAN NO KAMAE = a stance characterised by having one's hands/sword in a central position with respect to one's body.
- CHUSHIN = Centre. Especially, the centre of one's movement or balance.
- DAME = Incorrect or bad.
- DAN = Black belt rank. In Aikikai Aikido, the highest rank it is now possible to obtain is 8th dan. There are some Aikidoists who hold ranks of 10th dan. These ranks were awarded by the founder prior to his death, and cannot be rescinded. White belt ranks are called KYU ranks.
- DO = Way / path. The Japanese character for "DO" is the same as the Chinese character for Tao (as in "Taoism"). In Aikido, the connotation is that of a way of attaining enlightenment or a way of improving one's character through aiki.
- DOGI = Training uniform.
- DOJO = Literally "place of the Way". Also "place of enlightenment". The place where we practice Aikido. Traditional etiquette prescribes bowing in the direction of the shrine (KAMIZA) or the designated front of the dojo (SHOMEN) whenever entering or leaving the dojo.
- DOJO CHO = The head of the dojo. A title. Currently, Moriteru Ueshiba (grandson of the founder) is DOJO CHO at World Aikido Headquarters ("HOMBU DOJO") in Tokyo, Japan.
- DOMO ARIGATO GOZAIMASHITA = Japanese for "thank you very much." At the end of each class, it is proper to bow and thank the instructor and those with whom you've trained.
- DORI = Seize or grasp.
- DOSHU = Head of the way (currently Moriteru Ueshiba, grandson of Aikido's founder, Morihei Ueshiba). The highest official authority in IAF Aikido.
- ENGI = (Inter)dependent origination (Sanskrit = pratitya samutpada). In Buddhist philosophy, phenomena have no unchanging essences. Rather, they originate and exist only in virtue of material and causal conditions. Without these material and causal conditions, there would be no phenomena. Furthermore, since the material and causal conditions upon which all phenomena depend are continually in flux, phenomena themselves are one and all impermanent. Since whatever is impermanent and dependent for existence on conditions has no absolute status (or is not absolutely real), it follows that phenomena (what are ordinarily called "things") are have no absolute or independent existential status, i.e., they are empty. To cultivate a cognitive state in which the empty status of things is manifest is to realise or attain enlightenment. The realization of enlightenment, in turn, confers a degree of cognitive freedom and spontaneity which, among other (and arguably more important) benefits, facilitates the performance of martial techniques in response to rapidly changing circumstances. (see KU)
- ERI = Collar.
- FUDO = Immovable.
- FUDO SHIN = "Immovable mind." A state of mental equanimity or imperturbability. The mind, in this state, is calm and undistracted (metaphorically, therefore, "immovable"). FUDO MYO is a Buddhist guardian deity who carries a sword in one hand (to destroy enemies of the Buddhist doctrine), and a rope in the other (to rescue sentient beings from the pit of delusion, or from Buddhist hell-states). He therefore embodies the two-fold Buddhist ideal of wisdom (the sword) and compassion (the rope). To cultivate FUDO SHIN is thus to cultivate a mind which can accommodate itself to changing circumstances without compromise of ethical principles.
- FUKUSHIDOIN = A formal title whose connotation is something approximating "assistant instructor."
- FURI KABURI = Sword-raising movement. This movement in found especially in IKKYO, IRIMI-NAGE, and SHIHO-NAGE.
- GAESHI = Reversal.
- GANMENUCHI = Thrust to the face.
- GEDAN = Lower position. GEDAN NO KAMAE is thus a stance with the hands or a weapon held in a lower position.
- GI (DO GI) (KEIKO GI) = Training costume. Either judo-style or karate-style GI are acceptable in most DOJO, but they must be white and cotton. (No black satin GI with embroidered dragons. Please.)
- GIRI = Obligation to another.
- GOKKYO = Fifth teaching.
- GYAKU = Reverse or opposite.
- GYAKU HANMI = Opposing stance (if UKE has the right foot forward, NAGE has the left foot forward, if UKE has the left foot forward, NAGE has the right foot forward).
- HAKAMA = Divided skirt usually worn by black-belt ranks. In some DOJO, the HAKAMA is also worn by women of all ranks, and in some DOJO by all practitioners.
- HANMI = Half-body stance. Triangular stance. Most often Aikido techniques are practised with UKE and NAGE in pre-determined stances. This is to facilitate learning the techniques and certain principles of positioning with respect to an attack. At higher levels, specific HANMI cease to be of much importance.
- HANDACHI = Half-standing (kneeling position).
- HANMI HANDACHI = Position with NAGE sitting, UKE standing. Training in HANMI HANDACHI WAZA is a good way of practising techniques as though with a significantly larger/taller opponent. This type of training also emphasizes movement from one's centre of mass (HARA).
- HANTAI = Opposite or reverse.
- HAPPO = 8 directions; as in HAPPO-UNDO (8 direction exercise) or HAPPO-GIRI (8 direction cutting with the sword). The connotation here is really movement in all directions. In Aikido, one must be prepared to turn in any direction in an instant.
- HARA = One's centre of mass, located about 2" below the navel. Traditionally this was thought to be the location of the spirit/mind/(source of KI). Aikido techniques should be executed as much as possible from or through one's HARA.
- HASSO = A stance with the bokken or jo held vertically extending up from the shoulder.
- HASSO NO KAMAE = "Figure-eight" stance. The figure eight does not correspond to the arabic numeral "8", but rather to the Chinese/Japanese character which looks more like the roof of a house. In HASSO NO KAMAE, the sword is held up beside one's head, so that the elbows spread down and out from the sword in a pattern resembling this figure-eight character.
- HEIHO = Strategy.
- HENKA WAZA = "Changing technique". Varied technique. Especially beginning one technique and changing to another in mid-execution. Ex. beginning IKKYO but changing to IRIMI-NAGE.
- HIDARI = Left.
- HIJI = Elbow.
- HITAI = Forehead.
- HIZA = Knee.
- HO = Method.
- HOHO = Cheek
- HOMBU DOJO = A term used to refer to the central dojo of an organisation. Thus this usually designates Aikido World Headquarters. (see AIKIKAI)
- IKKYO = First teaching.
- IRIMI = (lit. "Entering the Body"). Entering movement. Many Aikidoists think that the IRIMI movement expresses the very essence of Aikido. The idea behind IRIMI is to place oneself in relation to an attacker in such a way that the attacker is unable to continue to attack effectively, and in such a way that one is able to control effectively the attacker's balance. (See SHIKAKU).
- IRIMINAGE = "Entering throw".
- ISSHIN DEN SHIN = "From mind to mind"; the way in which knowledge is said to be transmitted from teacher to pupil.
- JINJA = A (Shinto) shrine. There is an AIKI JINJA located in Iwama, Ibaraki prefecture, Japan.
- JIYU WAZA = Free-style practice of techniques. This usually involves more than one attacker who may attack NAGE in any way desired.
- JO = Wooden staff about 4'-5' in length. The JO originated as a walking stick. It is unclear how it became incorporated into Aikido. Many JO movements come from traditional Japanese spear- fighting, others may have come from jo-jutsu, but many seem to have been innovated by the founder. The JO is usually used in advanced practice.
- JODAN = Upper position.
- JODAN NO KAMAE is thus a stance with the hands or a weapon held in a high position.
- JO DORI = Jo taking technique.
- JO NAGE = Throwing with the jo.
- JOSEKI = Upper side of the mat; facing shomen, joseki is the right side.
- JOZA = Upper seat, where the instructor sits.
- JUJINAGE = Crossed arms throw.
- KACHIHAYABI = Victory at the speed of sunlight. According to the founder, when one has achieved total self-mastery (AGATSU) and perfect accord with the fundamental principles governing the universe (especially principles covering ethical interaction), one will have the power of the entire universe at one's disposal, there no longer being any real difference between oneself and the universe. At this stage of spiritual advancement, victory is instantaneous. The very intention of an attacker to perpetrate an act of violence breaks harmony with the fundamental principles of the universe, and no one can compete successfully against such principles. Also, the expression of the fundamental principles of the universe in human life is love (AI), and love, according to the founder, has no enemies. Having no enemies, one has no need to fight, and thus always emerges victorious. (see AGATSU and MASAKATSU)
- KAESHI WAZA = Technique reversal. (UKE becomes NAGE and vice- versa). This is usually a very advanced form of practice. KAESHI WAZA practice helps to instil a sensitivity to shifts in resistance or direction in the movements of one's partner. Training so as to anticipate and prevent the application of KAESHI WAZA against one's own techniques greatly sharpens Aikido skills.
- KAISO = A title. The founder of Aikido (i.e., Morihei Ueshiba).
- KAITENNAGE = Rotary throw.
- KAKARAI GEIKO = Group practice.
- KAMAE = A posture or stance either with or without a weapon. KAMAE may also connote proper distance (MA AI) with respect to one's partner. Although "KAMAE" generally refers to a physical stance, there is an important parallel in Aikido between one's physical and one's psychological bearing. Adopting a strong physical stance helps to promote the correlative adoption of a strong psychological attitude. It is important to try so far as possible to maintain a positive and strong mental bearing in Aikido.
- KAMI = A divinity, living force, or spirit. According to SHINTO, the natural world is full of KAMI, which are often sensitive or responsive to the actions of human beings.
- KAMIZA = "God seat". A small shrine, especially in an Aikido, generally located the front of the dojo, and often housing a picture of the founder, or some calligraphy. One generally bows in the direction of the KAMIZA when entering or leaving the dojo, or the mat.
- KAN = House or hall; also, intuition.
- KANSETSU WAZA = Joint manipulation techniques.
- KATA = A "form" or prescribed pattern of movement, especially with the JO in Aikido. (But also "shoulder.")
- KATAME WAZA = "Hold-down" (pinning) techniques.
- KATATE = Forearm area.
- KATATE RYOTETORI = One wrist grasped by both hands.
- KATATORI = Grasping the shoulder or lapel.
- KATANA = What is vulgarly called a "samurai sword."
- KATSU JIN KEN = "The sword that saves life." As Japanese swordsmanship became more and more influenced by Buddhism (especially Zen Buddhism) and Taoism, practitioners became increasingly interested in incorporating ethical principles into their discipline. The consummate master of sworsmanship, according to some such practitioners, should be able not only to use the sword to kill, but also to save life. The concept of KATSU JIN KEN found some explicit application in the development of techniques, which would use non-cutting parts of the sword to strike or control one's opponent, rather than to kill him/her. The influence of some of these techniques can sometimes be seen in Aikido. Other techniques were developed by which an unarmed person (or a person unwilling to draw a weapon) could disarm an attacker. These techniques are frequently practised in Aikido. (see SETSU NIN TO)
- KEIKO = Training. The only secret to success in Aikido.
- KEN = Sword.
- KENSHO = Enlightenment. (see MOKUSO and SATORI)
- KI = Mind. Spirit. Energy. Vital force. Intention. (Chinese = Chi) For many Aikidokas, the primary goal of training in Aikido is to learn how to "extend" KI, or to learn how to control or redirect the KI of others. There are both "realist" and anti-realist interpretations of KI. The KI-realist takes KI to be, literally, a kind of "stuff," "energy," or life force which flows within the body. Developing or increasing one's own KI, according to the KI- realist, thus confers upon the Aikidoka greater power and control over his/her own body, and may also have the added benefits of improved health and longevity. According to the KI-anti-realist, KI is a concept which covers a wide range of psycho-physical phenomena, but which does not denote any objectively existing "energy" or "stuff." The KI-anti-realist believes, for example, that to "extend KI" is just to adopt a certain kind of positive psychological disposition and to correlate that psychological disposition with just the right combination of balance, relaxation, and judicious application of physical force. Since the description "extend KI" is somewhat more manageable, the concept of KI has a class of well-defined uses for the KI-anti-realist, but does not carry with it any ontological commitments beyond the scope of mainstream scientific theories.
- KIAI = Explosive projection of energy in the form of a shout or yell. A shout delivered for the purpose of focussing all of one's energy into a single movement. Also refers to the energy level or feeling of a person. Even when audible KIAI are absent, one should try to preserve the feeling of KIAI at certain crucial points within Aikido techniques.
- KIHON = Basic technique. Something which is fundamental. There are often many seemingly very different ways of performing the same technique in Aikido. To see beneath the surface features of the technique and grasp the core common is to comprehend the KIHON.
- KI MUSUBI = KI NO MUSUBI = Literally "knotting/tying-up KI". The act / process of matching one's partner's movement / intention at its inception, and maintaining a connection to one's partner throughout the application of an Aikido technique. Proper KI MUSUBI requires a mind that is clear, flexible, and attentive. (see SETSUZOKU)
- KIRI = Cut.
- KIRIGAESHI = A suburi exercise of continuous YOKOMEN and GYAKU YOKOMEN strikes.
- KOHAI = A student junior to oneself.
- KOKORO = "Heart or mind." Japanese folk psychology does not distinguish clearly between the seat of intellect and the seat of emotion as does Western folk psychology.
- KOKYU = Breath. Part of Aikido is the development of "KOKYU RYOKU", or "breath power." This is the co-ordination of breath with movement. A prosaic example: When lifting a heavy object, it is generally easier when breathing out. Also breath control may facilitate greater concentration and the elimination of stress. In many traditional forms of meditation, focus on the breath is used as a method for developing heightened concentration or mental equanimity. This is also the case in Aikido. A number of exercises in Aikido are called "KOKYU HO," or "breath exercises." These exercises are meant to help one develop KOKYU RYOKU.
- KOKYUDOSA = Breathing or timing exercise.
- KOSHI = Hip.
- KOSHINAGE = Hip throw.
- KOTAI = Movement to the rear.
- KOTE = Back of hand.
- KOTEGAESHI = "Back of hand out-turn", a throwing technique.
- KOTODAMA = A practice of intoning various sounds (phonetic components of the Japanese language) for the purpose of producing mystical states. The founder of Aikido was greatly interested in Shinto and Neo-shinto mystical practices, and he incorporated a number of them into his personal Aikido practice.
- KU = Emptiness. According to Buddhism, the fundamental character of things is absence (or emptiness) of individual unchanging essences. The realization of the essencelessness of things is what permits the cultivation of psychological non-attachment, and thus cognitive equanimity. The direct realization of (or experience of insight into) emptiness is enlightenment. This shows up in Aikido in the ideal of developing a state of cognitive openness, permitting one to respond immediately and intuitively to changing circumstances (see MOKUSO).
- KUDEN = Oral instruction.
- KUBI = Neck.
- KUBISHIME = Choking the neck.
- KUMIJO = Jo against jo. Jo matching exercise (partner practice).
- KUMITACHI = Sword against sword. Sword matching exercise (partner practice).
- KUZUSHI = The principle of destroying one's partner's balance. In Aikido, a technique cannot be properly applied unless one first unbalances one's partner. To achieve proper KUZUSHI, in Aikido, one should rely primarily on position and timing, rather than merely on physical force.
- KYU = White belt rank. (Or any rank below SHODAN)
- MA AI = Proper distancing or timing with respect to one's partner. Since Aikido techniques always vary according to circumstances, it is important to understand how differences in initial position affect the timing and application of techniques.
- MAE = Front or forward.
- MAE UKEMI = "forward fall / roll".
- MASAKATSU = "True victory." (see AGATSU and KACHIHAYABI)
- MEISO HO = Meditation exercise.
- MEN = Head.
- MIGI = Right.
- MISOGI = Ritual purification. Aikido training may be looked upon as a means of purifying oneself; eliminating defiling characteristics from one's mind or personality. Although there are some specific exercises for MISOGI practice, such as breathing exercises, in point of fact, every aspect of Aikido training may be looked upon as MISOGI. This, however, is a matter of one's attitude or approach to training, rather than an objective feature of the training itself.
- MOCHI = Grasp.
- MOKUSO = Meditation. Practice often begins or ends with a brief period of meditation. The purpose of meditation is to clear one's mind and to develop cognitive equanimity. Perhaps more importantly, meditation is an opportunity to become aware of conditioned patterns of thought and behaviour so that such patterns can be modified, eliminated or more efficiently put to use. In addition, meditation may occasion experiences of insight into various aspects of Aikido (or, if one accepts certain Buddhist claims, into the very structure of reality). Ideally, the sort of cognitive awareness and focus that one cultivates in meditation should carry over into the rest of one's practice, so that the distinction between the "meditative mind" and the "normal mind" collapses.
- MOROTE TORI = One wrist grasped by both hands. Same as KATATE RYOTETORI.
- MUDANSHA = Students without black-belt ranking.
- MUNE = Chest.
- MUNE TSUKI = Thrust to the chest.
- MUSHIN = Literally "no mind". A state of cognitive awareness characterised by the absence of discursive thought. A state of mind in which the mind acts/reacts without hypostatization of concepts. MUSHIN is often erroneously taken to be a state of mere spontaneity. Although spontaneity is a feature of MUSHIN, it is not straightforwardly identical with it. It might be said that when in a state of MUSHIN, one is free to use concepts and distinctions without being used by them.
- NAGARE = Flowing. One goal of Aikido practice is to learn not to oppose physical force with physical force. Rather, one strives to flow along with physical force, redirecting it to one's advantage.
- NAGE = Throw; also the person executing the throw; the thrower.
- NIKKYO = Second teaching.
- NO = An article indicating possession or connection e.g. chudan no kamae: "stance of middle position".
- NI = A directional indicator e.g. shomen ni rei: "bow to the front"
- OBI = A belt.
- OMOTE = "The front," thus, a class of movements in Aikido in which NAGE enters in front of UKE.
- OMOTOKYO = One of the so-called "new-religions" of Japan. OMOTOKYO is a syncretic amalgam of Shintoism, Neo-Shinto mysticism, Christianity, and Japanese folk religion. The founder of Aikido was a devotee of OMOTOKYO, and incorporated some elements from it into his Aikido practice. The founder insisted, however, that one need not be a devotee of OMOTOKYO in order to study Aikido or to comprehend Aikido's purpose.
- ONEGAI SHIMASU = "I welcome you to train with me," or literally, "I make a request." This is said to one's partner when initiating practice.
- ORENAITE = Unbendable arm.
- OSAE = Pin. e.g. ude osae: arm pin.
- OSAE WAZA = Pinning techniques.
- O-SENSEI = Literally, "Great Teacher," i.e., Morihei Ueshiba, the founder of Aikido.
- RANDORI = Multiple man attack. Lit. "Seizing chaos". Free-style "all-out" training. Sometimes used as a synonym for JIYU WAZA. Although Aikido techniques are usually practiced with a single partner, it is important to keep in mind the possibility that one may be attacked by multiple aggressors. Many of the body movements of Aikido (TAI SABAKI) are meant to facilitate defence against multiple attackers.
- REI = Bow.
- RITSU REI = Standing bow.
- REIGI = Etiquette. Observance of proper etiquette at all times (but especially observance of proper DOJO etiquette) is as much a part of one's training as the practice of techniques. Observation of etiquette indicates one's sincerity, one's willingness to learn, and one's recognition of the rights and interests of others.
- RYOTE = Both hands.
- RYOTETORI = Grasping both hands.
- -SAN = Suffix, expression of respect.
- SANKAKUTAI = Triangular stance.
- SANKYO = Third teaching.
- SATORI = Enlightenment. In Buddhism, enlightenment is characterised by a direct realization or apprehension of the absence of unchanging essences behind phenomena. Rather, phenomena are seen to be empty of such essences -- phenomena exist in thoroughgoing interdependence (ENGI). As characterised by the founder of Aikido, enlightenment consists in realizing a fundamental unity between oneself and the (principles governing) the universe. The most important ethical principle the Aikidoist should gain insight into is that one should cultivate a spirit of loving protection for all things. (see KU and SHINNYO)
- SAYU = Side.
- SEIKA NO ITTEN = The "one point". See TANDEN.
- SEIZA = Sitting on one's knees. Sitting this way requires acclimatization, but provides both a stable base and greater ease of movement than sitting cross-legged.
- SENSEI = (Lit. "born before"). Teacher. It is usually considered proper to address the instructor during practice as "Sensei" rather than by his/her name. If the instructor is a permanent instructor for one's DOJO or for an organisation, it is proper to address him/her as "Sensei" off the mat as well.
- SEMPAI = A student senior to oneself.
- SETSUZOKU = Connection Aikido techniques are generally rendered more efficient by preserving a connection between one's centre of mass (HARA) and the outer limits of the movement, or between one's own centre of mass and that of one's partner. Also, SETSUZOKU may connote fluidity and continuity in technique. On a psychological level, SETSUZOKU may connote the relationship of action-response that exists between oneself and one's partner, such that successful performance of Aikido techniques depends crucially upon timing one's own actions and responses to accord with those of one's partner.
- SHIDOIN = A formal title meaning, approximately, instructor."
- SHIHAN = A formal title meaning, approximately, "master instructor." A "teacher of teachers."
- SHIHONAGE = Four corner throw.
- SHIKAKU = Literally “dead angle.” A position relative to one's partner where it is difficult for him/her to (continue to) attack, and from which it is relatively easy to control one's partner's balance and movement. The first phase of an Aikido technique is often to establish SHIKAKU.
- SHIKKO = Samurai walking (knee walking). Shikko is very important for developing a strong awareness of one's centre of mass (HARA). It also develops strength in one's hips and legs.
- SHIME = Choking or strangling.
- SHIMOZA = Lower seat, place where students sit, the wall opposite from kamiza or shomen.
- SHIMOSEKI = Junior area of mat; facing shomen, the left side.
- SHINKEN = A live , steel sword; figuratively, implies seriousness and commitment.
- SHINKEN SHOBU = Lit. "Duel with live swords". A fight to the death; figuratively, implies a situation requiring total abandon and concentration. This expresses the attitude one should have about Aikido training, i.e., one should treat the practice session as though it were, in some respects, a life-or-death duel with live swords. In particular, one's attention during Aikido training should be single-mindedly focussed on Aikido, just as, during a life-or-death duel, one's attention is entirely focussed on the duel.
- SHINNYO = Thusness or suchness. A term commonly used in Buddhist philosophy (and especially in Zen Buddhism) to denote the character of things as they are experienced without filtering the experiences through an overt conceptual framework. There is some question whether “pure” uninterpreted experience (independent of all conceptualization / categorization) is possible given the neurological/cognitive makeup of human beings. However, SHINNYO can also be taken to signify experience of things as empty of individual essences (see KU).
- SHINTO = "The way of the gods." The indigenous religion of Japan. The founder of Aikido was deeply influenced by OMOTOKYO, a religion largely grounded in SHINTO mysticism. (see KAMI)
- SHISEI = Posture, body alignment.
- SHODAN = First degree black belt.
- SHOMEN = Front or top of head. Also the designated front of a DOJO.
- SHOMENUCHI = Overhead strike to the front of the head.
- SHUGYO = Intense physical and mental training to perfect character and realise one's true nature.
- SHUTO = Cutting strike with the edge of the hand.
- SOKUMEN IRIMINAGE = Side of the head entering throw.
- SOTO = "Outside." Thus, a class of Aikido movements executed, especially, outside the attacker's arm(s). (see UCHI)
- SUBURI = "Empty swing". Basic JO or BOKKEN individual practice in striking and thrusting.
- SUBURITO = A heavy bokken used for suburi, and sometimes for KUMITACHI.
- SUKASHIWAZA = Techniques performed without allowing the attacker to complete a grab or to initiate a strike. Ideally, one should be sensitive enough to the posture and movements of an attacker (or would-be attacker) that the attack is neutralized before it is fully executed. A great deal of both physical and cognitive training is required in order to attain this ideal.
- SUKI = Opening or weakness. An opening or gap where one is vulnerable to attack or application of a technique, or where one's technique is otherwise flawed. SUKI may be either physical or psychological. One goal of training is to be sensitive to SUKI within one's own movement or position, as well as to detect SUKI in the movement or position of one's partner. Ideally, a master of Aikido will have developed his/her skill to such an extent that he/she no longer has any true SUKI.
- SUMI OTOSHI = Corner drop, a throwing technique.
- SURIASHI = Sliding foot.
- SUTEMI = Literally "to throw-away the body." The attitude of abandoning oneself to the execution of a technique (in judo, a class of techniques where one sacrifices one's own balance/position in order to throw one's partner). (See AI UCHI).
- SUWARI WAZA = Techniques executed with both UKE and NAGE in a kneeling position. These techniques have their historical origin (in part) in the practice of requiring all samurai to sit and move about on their knees while in the presence of a DAIMYO (feudal lord). In theory, this made it more difficult for anyone to attack the DAIMYO. But this was also a position in which one received guests (not all of whom were always trustworthy). In contemporary Aikido, SUWARI WAZA is important for learning to use one's hips and legs.
- TACHI = A type of Japanese long sword; technically refers to swords worn edge downward. (Also "standing position").
- TACHITORI = Sword taking technique; also called BOKKEN TORI.
- TACHI WAZA = Standing techniques.
- TAIJUTSU = "Body arts," i.e., unarmed practice.
- TAI NO HENKO = TAI NO TENKAN = Basic blending practice involving turning 180 degrees.
- TAI SABAKI = Body movement e.g. irimi, tenkan.
- TAKEMUSU AIKI = A "slogan" of the founder's meaning "infinitely generative martial art of aiki." Thus, a synonym for Aikido. The scope of Aikido is not limited only to the standard, named techniques one studies regularly in practice. Rather, these standard techniques serve as repositories of more fundamental principles (KIHON). Once one has internalized the KIHON, it is possible to generate a virtually infinite variety of new Aikido techniques in accordance with novel conditions.
- TANDEN = (Sanskrit: Nabhi Chakra (or Manipurak Chakra). Chinese: tan tien); the "one point", the centre of the body's gravity and source of spiritual power, located two inches below the navel in the centre of the HARA.
- TANINSUGAKE = Training against multiple attackers, usually from grabbing attacks.
- TANTO = A dagger.
- TANDO DORI = Knife-taking technique.
- TATAMI = Mat.
- TEBUKI = Wrist (lit. "Throat of the hand").
- TEBUKITORI = Wrist grab.
- TEGATANA = "Hand sword", i.e. the edge of the hand. Many Aikido movements emphasise extension and alignment "through" one's tegatana. Also, there are important similarities obtaining between Aikido sword techniques, and the principles of tegatana application.
- TENCHINAGE = "Heaven- Earth throw".
- TENKAN = "Spinning change", a turning body movement, esp. turning the body 180 degrees. (see TAI NO TENKAN)
- TENSHIN = A movement where NAGE retreats 45 degrees away from the attack (esp. to UKE's open side).
- TO = Sword.
- TORI = To grasp or seize; also the NAGE of defender.
- TOSHU = Without a weapon.
- TSUBA = Sword hilt.
- TSUGIASHI = Slide step.
- TSUKI = A punch or thrust (esp. an attack to the midsection).
- UCHI = Strike, e.g., SHOMEN UCHI
- UCHI = "Inside." A class of techniques where NAGE moves, especially, inside (under) the attacker's arm(s).
- UCHI DESHI = "Inner disciple", a live-in student. A student who lives in a dojo and devotes him/herself both to full-time training and to the maintenance of the dojo (and sometimes to personal service to the SENSEI of the dojo).
- UDE = Arm.
- UDE GARAMI = Arm entwining technique.
- UDE OSAE = Arm pin.
- UESHIBA KISSHOMARU = The son of the founder of Aikido and current Aikido DOSHU.
- UESHIBA MORIHEI = The founder of Aikido. (see O-SENSEI and KAISO).
- UESHIBA MORITERU = The grandson of the founder and current DOJOCHO at HOMBU DOJO.
- UKE = (Lit. "One who receives"). Person being thrown (receiving the technique). At high levels of practice, the distinction between UKE and NAGE becomes blurred. In part, this is because it becomes unclear who initiates the technique, and also because, from a certain perspective, UKE and NAGE are thoroughly interdependent.
- UKEMI = Literally "receiving [with/through] the body," thus, the art of falling in response to a technique. MAE UKEMI are front roll-falls, USHIRO UKEMI are back roll-falls. Ideally, one should be able to execute UKEMI from any position and in any direction. The development of proper ukemi skills is just as important as the development of throwing skills and is no less deserving of attention and effort. In the course of practicing UKEMI, one has the opportunity to monitor the way one is being moved so as to gain a clearer understanding of the principles of Aikido techniques. Just as standard Aikido techniques provide strategies for defending against physical attacks, so does UKEMI practice provide strategies for defending against falling (or even against the application of an Aikido or Aikido-like technique!).
- UNDO = Exercise.
- URA = "Rear." A class of Aikido techniques executed by moving behind the attacker and turning. Sometimes URA techniques are called TENKAN (turning) techniques.
- USHIRO = Backwards or behind, as in USHIRO UKEMI or falling backwards.
- USHIROTORI = Any rear attack; often refers specifically to "bearhug". Other rear attacks include USHIROERIDORI, USHIROTEKUBITORI, USHIROKUBISHIME, USHIROHIJITORI, USHIROKATATORI, etc.
- WAZA = Techniques. Although in Aikido we have to practice specific techniques, Aikido as it might manifest itself in self-defense may not resemble any particular, standard Aikido technique. This is because Aikido techniques encode strategies and types of movement which are modified in accordance with changing conditions. (see KIHON)
- x-TORI (x-DORI) = Taking away x, e.g. TANTO-TORI (knife-taking).
- YAME = Stop.
- YOKO = Side.
- YOKOMEN = Side of the head.
- YOKOMENUCHI = Strike to the side of the head or temple.
- YUBI = Fingers.
- YUDANSHA = Black belt holder (any rank).
- ZANSHIN = Lit. "remaining mind/heart". Even after an Aikido technique has been completed, one should remain in a balanced and aware state. ZANSHIN thus connotes "following through" in a technique, as well as preservation of one's awareness so that one is prepared to respond to additional attacks.
- ZEN = (Sanskrit "Dhyana", Chinese "Ch'an"); lit. "meditation". A school or division of Buddhism characterised by techniques designed to produce enlightenment. In particular, Zen emphasizes various sorts of meditative practices, which are supposed to lead the practitioner to a direct insight into the fundamental character of reality (see KU and MOKUSO).
- ZORI = Sandals worn off the mat to help keep the mat clean!
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