Katana

From Karate, Kungfu, Wrestling, Mixed Fighting Information Source

Katana (刀) is the word for "sword" in the Japanese language. It is also used specifically for a type of Japanese backsword or longsword (大刀 daitō) in use after the 1400s: a curved, single-edged sword traditionally used by the samurai. This article refers to both. Pronounced [kah-tah-nah] in the kun'yomi (Japanese reading) of the kanji 刀, the on'yomi (Chinese language reading) is tō.

The katana was typically paired with the wakizashi or shōtō, a similarly made but shorter sword, both worn by the members of the warrior class. It could also be worn with the tanto, an even smaller similarly shaped blade. The two weapons together were called the daishō which literally means big-small, and represented the social power and personal honor of the samurai. The long blade was used for open combat, while the shorter blade was considered a side arm, more suited for stabbing, close combat (such as indoors), and seppuku, a form of ritual suicide.

The katana was primarily used for cutting, although its curvature is generally gentle enough to allow for effective thrusting as well. Though it is intended for use with a two-handed grip, many extant historical Japanese sword arts include at least one or two single-handed techniques. It is traditionally worn edge up. While the practical arts for using the sword for its original purpose are now obsolete, kenjutsu and iaijutsu have turned into modern martial arts. The art of drawing the katana and attacking one's enemies is iado, and kendo is an art of fencing with a shinai while protected by helmet and armour.