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Definition of sensei

sensei

/ˈsɛn.seɪ/
sen · sei
Plural:senseis
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sensei Lexical Profile

sensei Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A teacher or instructor, especially in a Japanese martial art such as karate, judo, or aikido.

Example

"The students bowed respectfully to their sensei before stepping onto the practice mat."

2

In Japanese culture, an honorific title of respect used to address or refer to teachers, doctors, lawyers, artists, or other figures of authority and mastery.

Example

"During the literary conference in Tokyo, the acclaimed novelist was addressed as sensei by her peers and admirers."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Nearby Words

sensationalize
sensationally
sense
sensei
senseless
senselessly
senselessness

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the late 19th century from Japanese 'sensei', literally meaning 'one who has gone before' or 'prior-born', from Middle Chinese roots denoting 'before' and 'birth' or 'life'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Sensei. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/sensei
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