What is sensei?

The term "sensei" is a Japanese word that is commonly used to refer to a teacher or an instructor. It is widely used in martial arts, like karate, judo, and aikido, to address instructors. Beyond martial arts, "sensei" can also be applied to teachers, doctors, lawyers, and other professionals in Japan as a sign of respect. The word itself is a combination of "sen" (before) and "sei" (birth), implying someone who has gone before you in the knowledge or practice they are imparting.

In popular culture, "sensei" frequently appears in anime, manga, and films, often depicting the mentor-student relationship with an emphasis on discipline, wisdom, and growth. Sensei figures in these narratives often teach valuable life lessons in addition to their specific subject or skill, embodying the ideal of lifelong learning and self-improvement.