Aikidoka

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Aikidoka (合気道家 aikidōka) is a Japanese term for a practitioner of the martial art Aikido.^[1] The term is rarely heard among native speakers of Japanese, in spite of its common use as a loanword in other countries.

Etymology

In the Japanese language, the suffix ka (家, -ka), when added to the name of certain activities, indicates an expert or professional in that field. Consequently, the meaning of the term in the ears of Japanese, especially when the field is martial arts, takes on a connotation of one who is exceptionally accomplished and highly respected. Further, because of the connotation of respect, this is a term one would never use with regard to oneself, even if deserved. There is no single word in Japanese carrying the same meaning that aikidōka has acquired as a loanword, namely that of a person practicing the art, regardless of their degree of accomplishment.

See also

• List of aikidoka

References