View source for Glossary of sumo terms

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The following words are terms used in [[sumo]] wrestling in Japan. <!--
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==A==
{{glossary}}
{{term|Agari-zashiki|{{nihongo||揚座敷|Agari-zashiki}}}}
{{defn|The raised part of a [[heya (sumo)|stable]] training room ({{transliteration|ja|[[#keikoba|keikoba]]}}) next to the {{transliteration|ja|[[dohyō]]}} on which the {{transliteration|ja|[[toshiyori|oyakata]]}} and any guests sit to observe training.}}

{{term|Akeni|{{nihongo||明荷|Akeni}}}}
{{defn|The luggage box of wrestlers and {{transliteration|ja|gyōji}} evolving in the {{transliteration|ja|[[sekitori]]}} divisions. {{transliteration|ja|Akeni}} are always lacquered paper-and-bamboo boxes that share the same color scheme (green, vermilion and black). On the sides are three squares containing the name of the owner in kanji. {{transliteration|ja|Yokozuna}} are typically allowed to use three boxes as they have more regalia.}}

{{term|Amazumo|{{nihongo||アマ相撲|Amazumo}}}}
{{defn|Amateur sumo, consisting of bouts between non-professionals, ex-professionals, or people otherwise ineligible to compete professionally such as women and minors. Includes individual and team competition at the international level.}}

{{term|Ankogata|{{nihongo||アンコ型|Ankogata}}}}
{{defn|In sumo slang, a wrestler with a big belly. Opposite of {{transliteration|ja|[[#soppugata|soppugata]]}}.}}

{{term|Anideshi|{{nihongo||兄弟子|Anideshi}}}}
{{defn|A senior low-ranker at a sumo [[heya (sumo)|stable]]. Tasked with enforcing discipline and instructing the basics of {{transliteration|ja|heya}} life to the {{transliteration|ja|[[#otōtodeshi|otōtodeshi]]}}.}}

{{term|Azukari|{{nihongo||預り|Azukari}}}}
{{defn|'Hold' or '[[no decision]]', a kind of [[Tie (draw)|draw]]. After a {{transliteration|ja|[[#mono-ii|mono-ii]]}}, the {{transliteration|ja|[[gyōji]]}} or the {{transliteration|ja|[[Judge (sumo)|shimpan]]}} "holds" the result if it was too close to call,<ref name="JT-draw"/> which is recorded with a white triangle. In 1927, the system was abolished and a {{transliteration|ja|torinaoshi}} (rematch) now takes place instead; the last {{transliteration|ja|azukari}} was recorded in 1951.<ref name="JT-draw"/><ref>[http://sumodb.sumogames.de/Query_bout.aspx?show_form=0&east1=on&kimarite=139 Sumo Reference: Bout query result (azukari)]</ref>}}
{{glossary end}}

==B==
[[Image:Banzuke2.jpg|thumb|{{transliteration|ja|[[Banzuke]]}} for the January 2012 tournament]]
{{glossary}}
{{term|Banzuke|{{nihongo||番付|[[Banzuke]]}}}}
{{defn|List of sumo wrestlers according to rank for a particular grand tournament, reflecting changes in rank due to the results of the previous tournament. It is written out in a particular calligraphy (see {{transliteration|ja|[[#sumo-ji|sumō-ji]]}}) and usually released on the Monday 13 days prior to the first day of the tournament.}}

{{term|Banzuke-gai|{{nihongo||番付外|Banzuke-gai}}}}
{{defn|'Outsider to the list'. A wrestler who is not yet ranked, or has fallen off the {{transliteration|ja|banzuke}} due to injury or other reason for non-participation.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.japantimes.co.jp/sports/2019/09/15/sumo/banzuke-gai-exists-rikishi-outside-normal-rankings/#.XYvMlJNKiUk|title=Sumo 101: Banzuke-gai|last=Gunning|first=John|author-link=John Gunning (journalist)|date=15 September 2019|publisher=[[The Japan Times]]|access-date=25 September 2019}}</ref>}}

{{term|Bariki|{{nihongo||馬力|Bariki}}}}
{{defn|'Vigour'. Cryptic term linking the consumption of alcohol to the strength of the wrestlers, as being alcohol resistant is said to be a show of power. In the past, wrestlers would pour beer or [[sake]] into a bowl the same size as a rice bowl and eat {{transliteration|ja|[[#chankonabe|chanko]]}} while drinking. Today, the consumption of alcohol is an integral part of the celebration after a wrestler wins a tournament, as he drinks sake from a big [[rice wine cup]] ({{transliteration|ja|sakazuki}}).}}

{{term|Basho|{{nihongo||場所|Basho}}}}
{{defn|'Venue'. Any sumo tournament. Compare {{transliteration|ja|[[#honbasho|honbasho]]}}.}}

{{term|Binbōgami|{{nihongo||貧乏神|[[Binbōgami]]}}}}
{{defn|'God of poverty'. In sumo ranking, the top {{transliteration|ja|[[#jūryō|jūryō]]}} wrestlers. Top {{transliteration|ja|jūryō}} wrestlers are often called to bout with {{transliteration|ja|[[#makuuchi|makuuchi]]}} wrestlers, but their income stays at that of a {{transliteration|ja|jūryō}}.}}

{{term|Binzuke|{{nihongo||鬢付け|Binzuke}}}}
{{defn|Also called {{transliteration|ja|binzuke abura}} ('{{transliteration|ja|binzuke}} oil'). A Japanese pomade, which consists mainly of wax and hardened chamomile oil that was used to style sumo wrestlers' hair and give it its distinctive smell and sheen. It is used exclusively by {{transliteration|ja|[[tokoyama]]}} hairdressers.}}

{{term|Butsukari|{{nihongo||ぶつかり|Butsukari}}}}
{{defn|'Collision'. A junior wrestler pushes a more senior wrestler (in a resistance position and presenting his torso) with force across the {{transliteration|ja|dohyō}} in order to build strength and learn hand placement. A demanding exercise that is repeated until exhaustion.}}
{{glossary end}}

==C==
{{glossary}}
{{term|Chankonabe|{{nihongo||ちゃんこ鍋|[[Chankonabe]]}}}}
{{defn|A stew commonly eaten in large quantities by sumo wrestlers as part of a weight gain diet. It contains {{transliteration|ja|[[dashi]]}} or stock with sake or {{transliteration|ja|[[mirin]]}} to add flavor. The bulk of {{transliteration|ja|chankonabe}} is made up of large quantities of protein sources, usually chicken, fish (fried and made into balls), [[tofu]], or sometimes beef; and vegetables (daikon, bok choy, etc.).}}

{{term|Chaya-dōri|{{nihongo||茶屋通り|Chaya-dori}}}}
{{defn|{{lit|Teahouse street}}. Also called {{transliteration|ja|Annaijo}} Entrance, a flower-theme decorated corridor located in the [[Ryōgoku Kokugikan]] where visitor can buy souvenirs, tickets and refreshments in one of the 20 businesses. The corridor is decorated with flowers matching the current season: {{transliteration|ja|hana-mochi}} in January during the {{transliteration|ja|Hatsu-basho}}, [[wisteria floribunda|wisteria]] in spring during the {{transliteration|ja|Natsu-basho}} and [[maple]] leaves in autumn during the {{transliteration|ja|Aki-basho}}. Each business has its own name and their history dates back to the 19th century.}}

{{term|Chikara-mizu|{{nihongo||力水|Chikara-mizu}}}}
{{defn|'Power-water'. The ladleful of water with which a wrestler ranked in {{transliteration|ja|jūryō}} or above will ceremonially rinse out his mouth in order to purify himself prior to a bout. The water is prepared by a {{transliteration|ja|yobidashi}} that draws water from the bucket with a ladle and hands it to the winning wrestler of the previous bout (known as the {{transliteration|ja|[[Glossary of sumo terms#kachi-nokori|kachi-nokori]]}}), who then gives the ladle to the wrestler of his side who is preparing for his own match. The wrestlers are encouraged to only take a sip instead of drinking the whole ladle. The ladle has been used since 1941, before that, sake cups were used. When water is given, the person holds the handle of the ladle with his right hand and supports it with his left hand while handing it to the person who takes the ladle. Thus, the person receiving the water drinks with his right hand while holding the handle with his left. The wrestler who gave the ladle then passes the {{transliteration|ja|[[Glossary of sumo terms#chikara-gami|chikara-gami]]}} to the next wrestler.}}

{{term|Chikara-gami|{{nihongo||力紙|Chikara-gami}}}}
{{defn|'Power-paper'. The piece of calligraphy-grade paper with which a wrestler will ceremonially spit out the water while covering his mouth (there is a spitting spout) and wipes his mouth and sweat off his face prior to a bout. It must be handed to him by a wrestler not tainted with a loss on that day, in the same manner of the {{nihongo||力水|chikara-mizu}} described above.}}

{{term|Chirichōzu|{{nihongo||塵手水|Chirichōzu}}}}
{{defn|'Washing the hands'. One of the many rituals preceding a sumo bout, in which both wrestlers squat facing each other, display their open hands, clap and extend their arms. This is done to demonstrate they do not hold or carry weapons, and that the fight will be a fair and clean one.}}

{{term|Chonmage|{{nihongo||丁髷|[[Chonmage]]}}}}
{{defn|Traditional Japanese haircut with a topknot, now largely only worn by sumo wrestlers, so an easy way to recognize that a man is in the sumo profession.}}
{{glossary end}}

==D==
[[Image:Dohyo all.png|thumb|A {{transliteration|ja|dohyō}}]]
[[Image:Aki basho dohyō-iri on Sept. 28 2014.jpg|thumb|A {{transliteration|ja|dohyō-iri}} ceremony]]
[[Image:Yokozuna-dohyō-iri-Kakuryu-Rikisaburo-at-Aki-basho-Sep-28-2014-cropped.jpg|thumb|right|A {{transliteration|ja|yokozuna}} ([[Kakuryū Rikisaburō]]) performing a {{transliteration|ja|dohyō-iri}}]]
{{glossary}}
{{term|Danpatsu-shiki|{{nihongo||断髪式|Danpatsu-shiki}}}}
{{defn|Retirement ceremony, held for a top wrestler in the [[Ryōgoku Kokugikan]] some months after retirement, in which his {{transliteration|ja|chonmage}}, or top knot, is cut off. A wrestler must have fought as a {{transliteration|ja|[[sekitori]]}} in at least 30 tournaments to qualify for a ceremony at the Kokugikan.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.nikkansports.com/battle/sumo/news/202205270001705.html|title=「引退相撲」と「断髪式」はどう違う？ 力士は全員、国技館で引退相撲ができる？ Ｑ＆Ａで回答|date=28 May 2022|work=Nikkan Sports|language=Japanese|access-date=2 June 2022}}</ref>}}

{{term|Deashi|{{nihongo||出足|Deashi}}}}
{{defn|Constant forward movement. Term used to refer to when a wrestler continuously moves forward as opposed to moving backwards or being moved backwards.}}{{Citation needed|date=February 2024}}

{{term|Degeiko|{{nihongo||出稽古|Degeiko}}}}
{{defn|'Going out to practice'. A practice session between wrestlers of competing stables. Generally organized between stables of a same {{transliteration|ja|[[#ichimon|ichimon]]}}.}}

{{term|Denshamichi|{{nihongo||電車道|Denshamichi}}}}
{{defn||'Railroad'. Refers to a style of {{transliteration|ja|[[#oshi-zumō|oshi-zumō]]}} where an opponent is blasted backward and quickly driven over the edges of the ring by aggressive attacks}}

{{term|Deshi|{{nihongo||弟子|Deshi}}}}
{{defn|An apprentice. Generally used to describe every lower-ranked wrestler ({{transliteration|ja|[[#makushita|makushita]]}} and below) in a stable. Also used to call every wrestler trained by the {{transliteration|ja|[[#shishō|shishō]]}} or a more senior wrestler.}}

{{term|Dezuiri|{{nihongo||手数入り|Dezuiri}}}}
{{defn|A {{transliteration|ja|yokozuna dohyo-iri}} performed as part of the New Year celebration at the [[Meiji Shrine]] in Tokyo.}}

{{term|Dohyō|{{nihongo||土俵|[[Dohyō]]}}}}
{{defn|The ring in which the sumo wrestlers hold their matches, made of a specific clay and spread with sand. A new {{transliteration|ja|dohyō}} is built prior to each tournament.}}

{{term|Dohyō-iri|{{nihongo||土俵入り|Dohyō-iri}}}}
{{defn|Ring-entering ceremony, performed only by the wrestlers in the {{transliteration|ja|jūryō}} and {{transliteration|ja|makuuchi}} divisions. The east and west sides perform their {{transliteration|ja|dohyō-iri}} together, in succession; the {{transliteration|ja|yokozuna}} have their own individual {{transliteration|ja|dohyō-iri}} performed separately. The main styles of {{transliteration|ja|yokozuna dohyō-iri}} are Unryū and Shiranui, named after [[Unryū Kyūkichi]] and [[Shiranui Kōemon]] (although it is now believed each performed the style named for the other). A {{transliteration|ja|yokozuna}} performs the ceremony with two attendants, the {{nihongo||太刀持ち|[[tachimochi]]}} or sword carrier, and the {{nihongo||露払い|[[tsuyuharai]]}} or dew sweeper.}}

{{term|Dohyō matsuri|{{nihongo||土俵祭|Dohyō matsuri}}}}
{{defn|'Ring Festival'. A [[Shinto]] ceremony in which the {{transliteration|ja|dohyō}} is purified and blessed prior to each {{transliteration|ja|[[Honbasho|basho]]}}. A head {{transliteration|ja|[[gyoji]]}} takes the role of a priest and reads a {{transliteration|ja|[[norito]]}} (called {{nihongo||故実言上|Kojitsugonjo}}). He then pours sake on the four corners of the ring and bury six good luck items which called {{transliteration|ja|Shizumemono}} (washed rice, dried chest nuts, dried squid, dried kelp, salt and [[Torreya nucifera]] fruits), in a center of the ring, then pour sake there. A {{transliteration|ja|[[#fure-daiko|fure-daiko]]}} procession then takes place to formally open the tournament period. The {{transliteration|ja|dohyō matsuri}} can also happen in the [[Heya (sumo)|stable]] to bless the {{transliteration|ja|[[#keikoba|keikoba]]}}.}}
{{glossary end}}

==E==
{{glossary}}
{{term|Ebanzuke|{{nihongo||絵番付|Ebanzuke}}}}
{{defn|Picture {{transliteration|ja|banzuke}} with paintings of top division {{transliteration|ja|sekitori}}, {{transliteration|ja|gyōji}} and sometimes {{transliteration|ja|yobidashi}}.}}
{{glossary end}}

==F==
{{glossary}}
{{term|Fudadome|{{nihongo||札止め|Fudadome}}}}
{{defn|'Sold out,' meaning that seats are 100% sold out. In contrast to {{transliteration|ja|man'in onrei}} which means full house and can be claimed when seats are anywhere between 75–95% filled, depending on what the officials decide.}}

{{term|Fundoshi|{{nihongo||褌|[[Fundoshi]]}}}}
{{defn|Also pronounced {{transliteration|ja|mitsu}}. General term referring to a loincloth, ornamental apron, or {{transliteration|ja|mawashi}}.}}

{{term|Fundoshikatsugi|{{nihongo||褌担ぎ|Fundoshikatsugi}}}}
{{defn|'Loincloth shoulder'.{{Citation needed|date=February 2024}} An apprentice {{transliteration|ja|[[#tsukebito|tsukebito]]}}. An attendant who carries light cargo.}}

{{term|Fure-daiko|{{nihongo||ふれ太鼓|Fure-daiko}}}}
{{defn|Also pronounced {{transliteration|ja|fure-taiko}}. A {{transliteration|ja|[[taiko]]}} drum procession to announce the start of a sumo wrestling event. On the day before the start of [[Edo period]]'s {{transliteration|ja|honbasho}}, {{transliteration|ja|[[yobidashi]]}} used to tour towns while beating portable drums as there were no news agencies. They read out the bouts and announced the days of the event. Today's {{transliteration|ja|yobidashi}} parade around the {{transliteration|ja|dohyō}} after the {{transliteration|ja|dohyō matsuri}} ceremony in the [[Ryōgoku Kokugikan]] and in the nearby streets and shops of sumo [[heya (sumo)|stables]].}}

{{term|Fusenpai|{{nihongo||不戦敗|Fusenpai}}}}
{{defn|A loss by default for not appearing at a scheduled bout. If a wrestler withdraws from the tournament (injury or retirement), one loss by default will be recorded against him on the following day, and simple absence for the remainder. Recorded with a black square.}}

{{term|Fusenshō|{{nihongo||不戦勝|Fusenshō}}}}
{{defn|A win by default because of the absence of the opponent. The system was established for the {{transliteration|ja|[[honbasho]]}} in the May 1927 tournament. After the issue of [[Hitachiiwa Eitarō]], the system was modified to the modern form. Prior to this, an absence would simply be recorded for both wrestlers, regardless of which one had failed to show. Recorded with a white square.}}
{{glossary end}}

==G==
{{glossary}}
{{term|Gaburi-yori|{{nihongo||がぶり寄り|Gaburi-yori}}}}
{{defn|Pushing the opponent with the torso.}}

{{term|Ginō-shō|{{nihongo||技能賞|Ginō-shō}}}}
{{defn|Technique prize. One of three special prizes awarded to {{transliteration|ja|rikishi}} for performance in a {{transliteration|ja|basho}}.}}

{{term|Gomenfuda|{{nihongo||御免札|Gomenfuda}}}}
{{defn|A vertical wooden sign erected at the entrance of the arena to announce the date of the {{transliteration|ja|[[honbasho]]}} and to show, during the Edo period, that the tournament was allowed by the authorities.}}

{{term|Gomenkōmuru|{{nihongo||蒙御免|Gomenkōmuru}}}}
{{defn|'Performing with permission'. A sumo term written on top of the {{transliteration|ja|[[banzuke]]}} and {{transliteration|ja|[[#gomenfuda|gomenfuda]]}}. Dating back to the Edo period to show that the tournament was authorized by the temple magistrates, where sumo tournaments where usually held.}}

{{term|Goningake|{{nihongo||五人掛け|Goningake}}}}
{{defn|Also known as {{nihongo||五人掛かり|goningakari}}. An exhibition match in which five lower-ranked wrestlers are challenged one after another by a senior high-ranking wrestler. For example, on May 29, 2022, during an [[Aminishiki Ryūji]]'s retirement ceremony, {{transliteration|ja|yokozuna}} [[Terunofuji]] faced simultaneously [[Atamifuji]], [[Midorifuji]], [[Nishikifuji]], [[Terutsuyoshi]] and [[Takarafuji]].}}

[[File:Gozengakari 1957.jpg|thumb|Makuuchi wrestlers perform a {{transliteration|ja|gozengakari dohyo-iri}} toward [[Emperor Shōwa]] in 1957]]
{{term|Gozengakari|{{nihongo||御前掛かり|Gozengakari}}}}
{{defn|Special {{transliteration|ja|makuuchi}} {{transliteration|ja|[[#dohyō-iri|dohyō-iri]]}} performed during {{transliteration|ja|[[#tenran-zumō|tenran-zumō]]}}. {{transliteration|ja|Makuuchi}}-ranked wrestlers (from {{transliteration|ja|maegashira}} to {{transliteration|ja|ōzeki}}) face the emperor's rostrum in ranks, dressed in {{transliteration|ja|[[keshō-mawashi]]}}, the lower the rank the closer to the emperor. They then perform {{transliteration|ja|[[#shiko|shiko]]}} and squat. They are then called by their {{transliteration|ja|[[shikona]]}}, rise and bow and departs before another higher ranked wrestler is called. This rare ceremony, usually performed in the first day of a tournament, only occur when the emperor arrives for the in-ring ceremonies, if he comes during the bouts there will be no ceremony. The latest occurrence of the {{transliteration|ja|gozengakari}} was in January 2007 when Emperor [[Akihito]] came to the [[Ryōgoku Kokugikan]].}}

{{term|Gunbai|{{nihongo||軍配|[[Gunbai]]}}}}
{{defn|A war fan, usually made of wood, used by the {{transliteration|ja|gyōji}} to signal his instructions and final decision during a bout. Historically, it was used by samurai officers in Japan to communicate commands to their soldiers.}}

{{term|Gunbai-dōri|{{nihongo||軍配通り|Gunbai-dōri}}}}
{{defn|The decision following a {{transliteration|ja|mono-ii}} affirming the original decision of the {{transliteration|ja|gyōji}}. Literally, 'according to the {{transliteration|ja|gunbai}}'.}}

{{term|Gyōji|{{nihongo||行司|[[Gyōji]]}}}}
{{defn|A sumo referee.}}

{{term|Gyōji gunbai sashichigae|{{nihongo||行司軍配差し違え|Gyōji gunbai sashichigae}}}}
{{defn|The decision following a {{transliteration|ja|mono-ii}} reversing the {{transliteration|ja|gyōji}}'s original decision. Literally, 'referee pointed the {{transliteration|ja|gunbai}} incorrectly'.}}
{{glossary end}}

==H==
{{glossary}}
{{term|Hachinana|{{nihongo||ハチナナ|Hachinana}}}}
{{defn|{{lit|eight-seven}} A Japanese expression meant to ridicule {{transliteration|ja|ōzeki}} who are underpowered but conveniently win and maintain their rank with a barely achieved {{transliteration|ja|kachi-koshi}}. It has a more bitter meaning than {{transliteration|ja|[[#kunroku|kunroku]]}}.}}

{{term|Hakkeyoi|{{nihongo||はっけよい|Hakkeyoi}}}}
{{defn|The phrase shouted by a sumo referee during a bout, specifically when the action has stalled and the wrestlers have reached a stand-off. There are numerous theories as to its meaning but 'Put some spirit into it!' is widely cited.}}

{{term|Hanamichi|{{nihongo||花道|Hanamichi}}}}
{{defn|The two main east and west "paths" leading from the preparation rooms to the {{transliteration|ja|dohyō}}.}}

{{term|Hanedaiko|{{nihongo||跳ね太鼓|Hanedaiko}}}}
{{defn|Drums sounded at the end of a tournament day inviting spectators to return the tomorrow.}}
[[File:Asashoryu fight Jan08.JPG|thumb|[[Asashōryū]] and [[Kotoshogiku]] displaying a {{transliteration|ja|hanmi}} stance]]
{{term|Hanmi|{{nihongo||半身|Hanmi}}}}
{{defn|'Half body'. In martial arts, a stance with legs in an L-shape, with one leg bent in front and other extended behind.}}

{{term|Hansoku|{{nihongo||反則|Hansoku}}}}
{{defn|'Foul' or 'infraction.' Denoted in official records whenever a forbidden move is used in a sumo contest (see {{Transliteration|ja|[[kinjite]]}}). {{Transliteration|ja|Hansoku}} can also be called for certain violations, such as a wrestler's {{Transliteration|ja|mawashi}} becoming undone.}}

{{term|Haridashi|{{nihongo||張り出し|Haridashi}}}}
{{defn|'Overhang'. If there are more than two wrestlers at any {{transliteration|ja|san'yaku}} rank, the additional wrestlers are termed {{transliteration|ja|haridashi}}. Prior to 1995, such wrestlers were listed on the {{transliteration|ja|banzuke}} in extensions or "overhangs" to the row for {{transliteration|ja|makuuchi}} wrestlers. This is now an informal designation, since presently all wrestlers are listed within the normal bounds of the row.}}

{{term|Hassotobi|{{nihongo||八艘飛び|Hassotobi}}}}
{{defn|'Eight-boat jump'. A kind of {{transliteration|ja|[[#henka|henka]]}} in which a wrestler jumps vertically at the {{transliteration|ja|[[tachi-ai]]}} in an attempt to avoid the opponent's charge. The name derives from the Japanese epic [[The Tale of the Heike]], in which the samurai [[Minamoto no Yoshitsune]] leapt from boat to boat eight times to avoid his enemies.}}

{{term|Hatsukuchi|{{nihongo||初口|Hatsukuchi}}}}
{{defn|The first match of a division on a tournament day.}}

{{term|Hazuoshi|{{nihongo||筈押し|Hazuoshi}}}}
{{defn|Pushing up with hands under opponent's armpits. {{transliteration|ja|Hazu}} refers to the nock of an arrow where it makes contact with the bow string. {{transliteration|ja|Hazu}} can also mean the nock-shaped area of the hand between the thumb and forefinger, so in this case means using the {{transliteration|ja|hazu}} of the hand to lock into the armpit of the opponent and push them upward to prevent them from getting a hold of one's belt.}}

{{term|Henka|{{nihongo||変化|Henka}}}}
{{defn|A sidestep performed at the {{transliteration|ja|tachi-ai}} to avoid an attack and set up a [[Kimarite#Hatakikomi 叩き込み|slap-down technique]], but this is often regarded as unsportsmanlike. Some say it is a legitimate "outsmarting" move, and provides a necessary balance to direct force, {{transliteration|ja|henka}} meaning 'change; variation'. Any other kind of sidestepping maneuver done after the tachi-ai is called an {{transliteration|ja|inashi}}, meaning "a parry, sidestep or dodge".<ref>{{cite web|url=https://jisho.org/search/henka|title=henka|website=jisho.org}}</ref>}}

{{term|Heya|{{nihongo||部屋|[[heya (sumo)|Heya]]}}}}
{{defn|Literally 'room', but usually rendered as 'stable'. The establishment where a wrestler trains, and also lives while he is in the lower divisions. It is pronounced {{transliteration|ja|beya}} in compounds, such as in the name of the stable. (For example, the {{transliteration|ja|heya}} named {{transliteration|ja|[[Sadogatake stable|Sadogatake]]}} is called {{transliteration|ja|Sadogatake-beya}}.)}}

{{term|Heyagashira|{{nihongo||部屋頭|Heyagashira}}}}
{{defn|The highest-ranked active wrestler in a stable (or {{transliteration|ja|heya}}).}}

{{term|Higi|{{nihongo||非技|Higi}}}}
{{defn|'Non-technique'. A winning situation where the victorious wrestler did not initiate a {{transliteration|ja|kimarite}}. The Japan Sumo Association recognizes five {{transliteration|ja|higi}}. See {{Transliteration|ja|[[Kimarite#Non-techniques|kimarite]]}} for descriptions.}}

{{term|Hikae-zabuton|{{nihongo||控え座布団|Hikae-zabuton}}}}
{{defn|Also known as {{transliteration|ja|sekitori-zabuton}}. A {{transliteration|ja|[[zabuton]]}} (cushion) used by wrestlers ranked in the {{transliteration|ja|[[makuuchi]]}} division in the wait of their turns to step onto the ring. It is a large sized {{transliteration|ja|zabuton}}, filled with thicker cotton batting. The wrestler's ring name is embroidered on the center of the {{transliteration|ja|zabuton}} and it is often used as a gift given by patrons.}}

{{term|Hikiwake|{{nihongo||引分|Hikiwake}}}}
{{defn|A type of draw caused by a long bout that exhausted both wrestlers beyond the point of being able to continue. Also possibly known as a {{nihongo||休み|yasumi}}.<ref>[http://sumodb.sumogames.de/Query_bout.aspx?show_form=0&east1=on&kimarite=127 Sumo Reference: Bout query result (yasumi)]</ref> In modern sumo, this situation is resolved with a break and subsequent restart or rematch.<ref name="JT-draw"/> Though common in early sumo, {{transliteration|ja|hikiwake}} are very rare in the modern age and there has not been one since 1974.<ref>[http://sumodb.sumogames.de/Query_bout.aspx?show_form=0&east1=on&kimarite=92 Sumo Reference: Bout query result (hikiwake)]</ref> Recorded with a white triangle.}}

{{term|Hinoshita Kaisan|{{nihongo||日下開山|Hinoshita Kaisan}}}}
{{defn|A nickname used to describe the first {{transliteration|ja|[[yokozuna]]}}, [[Akashi Shiganosuke]]. The term is sometimes used in reference to {{transliteration|ja|yokozuna}} in general, and appears stamped only on the {{transliteration|ja|tegata}} of {{transliteration|ja|yokozuna}} to signify their rank.}}

{{term|Honbasho|{{nihongo||本場所|[[Honbasho]]}}}}
{{defn|A professional sumo tournament, held six times a year since 1958, where the results affect the wrestlers' rankings.}}

{{term|Hyōshigi|{{nihongo||拍子木|[[Hyōshigi]]}}}}
{{defn|The wooden sticks that are clapped by the {{transliteration|ja|yobidashi}} to draw the spectator's attention.}}
{{glossary end}}

==I==
{{glossary}}
{{term|Ichimon|{{nihongo||一門|Ichimon}}}}
{{defn|A group of related [[Heya (sumo)|stables]]. There are five groups: Dewanoumi, Nishonoseki, Takasago, Tokitsukaze, and Isegahama. These groups tend to cooperate closely on inter-stable training and the occasional transfer of personnel. All {{transliteration|ja|ichimon}} have at least one representative on the Sumo Association board of directors. In the past, {{transliteration|ja|ichimon}} were more established cooperative entities and until 1965, wrestlers from the same {{transliteration|ja|ichimon}} did not fight each other in tournament competition.}}

{{term|Iitoko uru|{{nihongo||いいとこ売る|Iitoko uru}}}}
{{defn|'Half-truth'. Making up a story by pretending to know something. In a sport as opaque as sumo, means exaggerated stories about the habits or character of wrestlers.}}

{{term|Inashi|{{nihongo||往なし|Inashi}}}}
{{defn|To sidestep or dodge. As opposed to when done at the {{transliteration|ja|tachiai}} when it is referred to as a {{transliteration|ja|henka}}, {{transliteration|ja|inashi}} is done after the initial {{transliteration|ja|tachi-ai}} to catch the opponent off guard and force him out in another direction.}}

{{term|Intai|{{nihongo||引退|Intai}}}}
{{defn|'Retirement'; the decision of an active [[rikishi|sumo wrestler]] to quit competing definitively. The most famous retirees becomes [[Television personalities in Japan|TV personalities]] or trainers while lower rankers usually find jobs as cooks in {{transliteration|ja|[[chankonabe]]}} restaurant. The most accomplished [[makuuchi|wrestlers]] are usually granted the right to become a {{transliteration|ja|[[toshiyori]]}} in order to train future generations of wrestlers.}}

{{term|Intai sumo|{{nihongo||引退相撲|Intai-zumō}}}}
{{defn|'Retirement sumo'. A one-day exhibition tournament held during the {{transliteration|ja|[[Glossary of sumo terms#Danpatsu-shiki|danpatsu-shiki]]}} to commemorate the retirement of a [[sekitori|salaried wrestler]].}}

{{term|Itabanzuke|{{nihongo||板番付|Itabanzuke}}}}
{{defn|'Board ranking'. A large wooden sumo ranking hung outside the tournament venue, usually at the basis of the drum tower. The initial {{transliteration|ja|banzuke}} prior to each {{transliteration|ja|honbasho}} is written on the {{transliteration|ja|itabanzuke}} before being reduced and printed on paper as leaflets for programs.}}

{{term|Itamiwake|{{nihongo||痛み分け|Itamiwake}}}}
{{defn|A draw due to injury. A rematch ({{transliteration|ja|torinaoshi}}) has been called but one wrestler is too injured to continue; this is no longer in use and the injured wrestler forfeits instead.<ref name="JT-draw">{{cite web|first=John|last=Gunning|publisher=[[The Japan Times]]|title=Sumo 101: Tied bouts|url=https://www.japantimes.co.jp/sports/2019/07/07/sumo/sumo-101-tied-bouts/|date=July 7, 2019|access-date=July 28, 2020}}</ref> The last {{transliteration|ja|itamiwake}} was recorded in 1999.<ref>[http://sumodb.sumogames.de/Query_bout.aspx?show_form=0&east1=on&kimarite=91 Sumo Reference: Bout query result (itamiwake)]</ref> Recorded with a white triangle.}}
{{glossary end}}

==J==
{{glossary}}
{{term|Ja-no-me|{{nihongo||蛇の目|Ja-no-me}}}}
{{defn|'Snake's eye'. The finely brushed sand around the ring that is used to determine if a wrestler has just touched his foot, or another part of his body, outside the ring. The {{transliteration|ja|[[yobidashi]]}} ensure this is clean of any previous marks immediately prior to each bout.}}

{{term|Jōi-jin|{{nihongo||上位陣|Jōi-jin}}}}
{{defn|'High rankers'. A term loosely used to describe wrestlers who would expect to face a {{transliteration|ja|yokozuna}} during a tournament. In practice this normally means anyone ranked {{transliteration|ja|maegashira}} 4 or above.}}

{{term|Jonidan|{{nihongo||序二段|[[Jonidan]]}}}}
{{defn|The second-lowest division of sumo wrestlers, below {{transliteration|ja|sandanme}} and above {{transliteration|ja|jonokuchi}}.}}

{{term|Jonokuchi|{{nihongo||序の口|[[Jonokuchi]]}}}}
{{defn|An expression meaning 'this is only the beginning'. The lowest division of sumo wrestlers.}}

{{term|Jungyō|{{nihongo||巡業|Jungyō}}}}
{{defn|Regional tours in Japan and sometimes abroad, undertaken between {{transliteration|ja|[[honbasho]]}}, during which the wrestlers give exhibition matches.}}

{{term|Junyūshō|{{nihongo||準優勝|Junyūshō}}}}
{{defn|An informal designation for a second-place finish in a sumo championship.}}

{{term|Jūryō|{{nihongo||十両|[[Jūryō]]}}}}
{{defn|'Ten {{transliteration|ja|[[ryō]]}}', for the original salary of a professional sumo wrestler. The second-highest division of sumo wrestlers, below {{transliteration|ja|makuuchi}} and above {{transliteration|ja|makushita}}, and the lowest division where the wrestlers receive a salary and full privileges.}}

{{term|Jūmaime|{{nihongo||十枚目|Jūmaime}}}}
{{defn|Another (formally, the official) name for the {{transliteration|ja|jūryō}} division. See {{transliteration|ja|[[#jūryō|jūryō]]}}.}}
{{glossary end}}

==K==
[[Image:Kuniyoshi Utagawa, The sumo wrestler 2.jpg|thumb|An Edo-period wrestler wearing a {{transliteration|ja|keshō-mawashi}}]]

{{glossary}}
{{term|Kabai-te|{{nihongo||庇い手|Kabai-te}}}}
{{defn|Literally translates as 'defending hand'. When the two wrestlers fall together, the wrestler on the lower side is referred to as {{transliteration|ja|[[#shini-tai|shini-tai]]}}, or 'dead body', meaning that he is the loser even if he does not touch the ground first. In this case, if injury is foreseen, the wrestler on the upper side is allowed to support his weight by sticking out a hand on the ground ({{transliteration|ja|kabai-te}}) prior to the {{transliteration|ja|[[#shini-tai|shini-tai]]}} wrestler touching the ground first. Although the wrestler on top touches first, he is still declared the winner.}}

{{term|Kabu|{{nihongo||株|Kabu}}}}
{{defn|See {{transliteration|ja|[[#toshiyori kabu|toshiyori kabu]]}}.}}

{{term|Kachi-age|{{nihongo||搗ち上げ|Kachi-age}}}}
{{defn|Technique where the wrestler folds his arms and rushes forward to hit opponent's chest or chin to make his posture upright. This is most commonly done at the {{transliteration|ja|tachi-ai}} and can also result in stunning the opponent. Literally translates as striking upward. The first kanji character is uncommon, and is also the one used to describe polishing rice or pounding [[mochi]] cakes.}}

{{term|Kachi-koshi|{{nihongo||勝ち越し|Kachi-koshi}}}}
{{defn|Finishing with a winning record in a tournament. For a {{transliteration|ja|sekitori}} with fifteen bouts in a tournament, it is 8-7 or better, and for lower-ranked wrestlers with seven bouts in a tournament, 4-3. Gaining {{transliteration|ja|kachi-koshi}} generally results in promotion. The opposite is {{transliteration|ja|make-koshi}}.}}

{{term|Kachi-nokori|{{nihongo||勝ち残り|Kachi-nokori}}}}
{{defn|Literally translates as 'the winner who remains'. During a day of sumo the 'power water' is only given to the next wrestler by either a previous winner on their side of the ring or the next wrestler to fight on their side of the ring so as not to receive the water from either the opposite side or from a loser, which would be bad luck. This individual is known as the {{transliteration|ja|kachi-nokori}}. For the {{transliteration|ja|[[#san'yaku|san'yaku]]}} matches it is traditional that wrestlers stay after their matches to avoid a wrestler being without {{transliteration|ja|kachi-nokori}}. In the event that all the {{transliteration|ja|san'yaku}} wrestlers on the same side lose, one side will not have a winner or a next wrestler to give them the water. In this rare case a {{transliteration|ja|[[#tsukebito|tsukebito]]}} of a losing {{transliteration|ja|san'yaku}} from this side who won a match during the day or who did not have a bout gives the water. For this occasion, the {{transliteration|ja|tsukebito}} are dressed in {{transliteration|ja|[[yukata]]}} with one sleeve removed ({{transliteration|ja|[[#Katahada|katahada]]}}). Until 1994, the {{transliteration|ja|yukata}} were worn as a loincloth as it is traditional to present the water in {{transliteration|ja|[[mawashi]]}}. If there is no winning {{transliteration|ja|tsukebito}}, or if he arrives late, the {{transliteration|ja|yobidashi}} gives the water. During the final {{transliteration|ja|jūryō}} bout, the {{transliteration|ja|yobidashi}} often give the water, since many wrestlers wait in the {{transliteration|ja|[[#hanamichi|hanamichi]]}} for the {{transliteration|ja|makuuchi}} ring-entering ceremony.}}

{{term|Kadoban|{{nihongo||角番|Kadoban}}}}
{{defn|An {{transliteration|ja|ōzeki}} who has suffered {{transliteration|ja|make-koshi}} in his previous tournament and so will be demoted if he fails to score at least eight wins. The present rules date from July 1969 and there have been over 100 cases of {{transliteration|ja|kadoban ōzeki}} since that time.}}

{{term|Kakegoe|{{nihongo||掛け声|[[Kakegoe]]}}}}
{{defn|The calls and shouts dictated by the ''[[gyōji]]'' to officiate a match.}}

{{term|Kakukai|{{nihongo||角界|Kakukai}}}}
{{defn|The world of sumo as a whole.}}

{{term|Kanreki-dohyō-iri|{{nihongo||還暦土俵入り|[[Kanreki dohyō-iri]]}}}}
{{defn|Former grand champion's 60th birthday ring-entering ceremony.}}

{{term|Katahada|{{nihongo||片肌脱|Katahada}}}}
{{defn|Method used by the {{transliteration|ja|[[#Kachi-nokori|kachi-nokori]]}} to undress their yukata of a shoulder in order to bring the {{transliteration|ja|[[#Chikara-mizu|chikara-mizu]]}} to the wrestler of the last match of the day.}} {{citation needed|date=February 2024}}

{{term|Kantō-shō|{{nihongo||敢闘賞|Kantō-shō}}}}
{{defn|Fighting Spirit prize. One of three special prizes awarded to wrestlers for performance in a {{transliteration|ja|honbasho}}.}}

[[File:NDL-DC 1303927 Utagawa Kunisada 式守伊之助・呼出シ弥吉 crd.jpg|thumb|right|upright=0.9|The {{transliteration|ja|kaobure gonjō}} ceremony (by [[Utagawa Kunisada]])]] 
{{term|Kaobure gonjō|{{nihongo||顔触れ言上|Kaobure gonjō}}}}
{{defn|Reading aloud of large sheets of paper, before the start of the {{transliteration|ja|makuuchi}} division bouts, in which the name of the wrestlers who faces each other on the day after are written. The reader is either the {{transliteration|ja|tate-gyōji}} or a {{transliteration|ja|san'yaku-gyōji}} who reads aloud in a melodious fashion and hands them one by one to a young {{transliteration|ja|yobidashi}} who points them at each cardinal point.}}

{{term|Keiko|{{nihongo||稽古|Keiko}}}}
{{defn|Term referring to practice or training in sumo.}}

{{term|Keikoba|{{nihongo||稽古場|Keikoba}}}}
{{defn|'Rehearsal room'. The practice area where daily training is happening in sumo stables.}}

{{term|Kettei-sen|{{nihongo||決定戦|Kettei-sen}}}}
{{defn|A playoff between two or more wrestlers in a division who are tied for the lead on the last day of the tournament.}}

{{term|Kenshō-kin|{{nihongo||懸賞金|Kenshō-kin}}}}
{{defn|Prize money based on sponsorship of the bout, awarded to the winner upon the {{transliteration|ja|gyōji}}'s {{transliteration|ja|gunbai}}. The banners of the sponsors are paraded around the {{transliteration|ja|dohyō}} prior to the bout, and their names are announced. Roughly half the sponsorship prize money goes directly to the winner, the remainder (minus an administrative fee) is held by the Japan Sumo Association until his retirement.}}

{{term|Keshō-mawashi|{{nihongo||化粧廻し|[[Keshō-mawashi]]}}}}
{{defn|The loincloth fronted with a heavily decorated apron worn by {{transliteration|ja|sekitori}} wrestlers for the {{transliteration|ja|dohyō-iri}}. These are very expensive, and are usually paid for by the wrestler's organization of supporters or a commercial sponsor.}}

{{term|Kimarite|{{nihongo||決まり手|[[Kimarite]]}}}}
{{defn|Winning techniques in a sumo bout, announced by the referee on declaring the winner. The Japan Sumo Association recognizes eighty-two different {{transliteration|ja|kimarite}}.}}

{{term|Kabu|{{nihongo||鬼門|Kimon}}}}
{{defn|'Demon's gate'. Glass ceiling for wrestlers, synonymous with insurmountable difficulties. Named after the traditional [[feng shui|geomancy]] beliefs that the north-east direction brings misfortune. In everyday language, it came to be used as a word referring to 'something that is likely to have an unpleasant result.'}}

{{term|Kinboshi|{{nihongo||金星|[[Kinboshi]]}}}}
{{defn|'Gold star'. Awarded to a {{transliteration|ja|maegashira}} who defeats a {{transliteration|ja|yokozuna}} during a {{transliteration|ja|honbasho}}. It represents a permanent salary bonus.}}

{{term|Kinjite|{{nihongo||禁じ手|[[Kinjite]]}}}}
{{defn|'Forbidden hand'. A foul move during a bout, which results in disqualification. Examples include punching, kicking and eye-poking. The only {{transliteration|ja|kinjite}} likely to be seen these days (usually inadvertently) is hair-pulling.}}

{{term|Koenkai|{{nihongo||後援会|Koenkai}}}}
{{defn|'Supporters association'. A membership-based fellowship for the purpose of supporting or endorsing a particular stable or wrestler.}}

{{term|Kōjō|{{nihongo||口上|Kōjō}}}}
{{defn|'Speech'. A formal address in which wrestlers promoted to {{transliteration|ja|yokozuna}} or {{transliteration|ja|ōzeki}} ranks makes a speech after the decision of their promotion is conveyed by [[toshiyori|elders]] of the Japan Sumo Association. The address usually takes place in the stable (decorated with a golden {{transliteration|ja|[[byōbu]]}} and {{transliteration|ja|[[kōhaku maku]]}}) in presence of the {{transliteration|ja|oyakata}}, his wife ({{transliteration|ja|ōkami-san}}), and supporters ({{transliteration|ja|koenkai}}). Formally dressed, both parties face each other kneel; bow; and make a formal speech.}}

{{term|Kokakuka|{{nihongo||好角家|Kokakuka|}}}}
{{defn|A sumo connoisseur, a person who loves sumo. The term comes from the word {{nihongo||角力|kakuriki}}, another name for sumo wrestling.}}

{{term|Kokusai Sumō Renmei|{{nihongo|Kokusai Sumō Renmei|国際相撲連盟}}}}
{{defn|[[International Sumo Federation]], the [[International Olympic Committee|IOC]]-recognized governing body for international and amateur sumo competitions.}}

{{term|Komebitsu|{{nihongo||米びつ|Komebitsu}}}}
{{defn|'Breadwinner'. A talented wrestler who is successful and wins [[List of sumo trophies|numerous prizes]] in the process, ensuring his financial subsistence and that his [[heya (sumo)|stable]] will be well provided for a year in food. In sumo, words related to money are used in connection with rice, because wrestlers in the past were paid in rice.}}

{{term|Komusubi|{{nihongo||小結|[[Komusubi]]}}}}
{{defn|'Little knot'. The fourth-highest rank of sumo wrestlers, and the lowest {{transliteration|ja|san'yaku}} rank.}}

{{term|Kore yori san'yaku|{{nihongo||これより三役|Kore yori san'yaku}}}}
{{defn|'These three bouts'.{{citation needed|date=February 2024}} The final three {{transliteration|ja|[[#torikumi|torikumi]]}} during {{transliteration|ja|[[#senshūraku|senshūraku]]}}. The winner of the first bout wins a pair of [[ya (arrow)|arrows]]. The winner of the penultimate bout wins the bow strings. The ultimate bout winner was awarded a bow ({{transliteration|ja|[[yumi]]}}) but since the introduction of the {{transliteration|ja|[[#yumitori-shiki|yumitori-shiki]]}} ceremony it is no longer the case.}}

{{term|Kōshō seido|{{nihongo||公傷制度|Kōshō seido}}}}
{{defn|'Public Injury System'. Introduced in 1972, this system allowed a wrestler who had been injured in the ring during a tournament to sit out the next tournament without any effect on his rank. It was abolished at the end of 2003 because it was felt too many wrestlers were missing tournaments with minor injuries.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.japantimes.co.jp/sports/2019/11/07/sumo/sumo-injuries-pose-ever-present-issues-wrestlers-rankings/#.XcRL9eSWymQ|title=Sumo injuries pose ever-present issues for wrestlers, rankings|last=Gunning|first=John|date=7 November 2019|work=Japan Times|access-date=7 November 2019}}</ref>}}

{{term|Kuisagaru|{{nihongo||食い下がる|Kuisagaru}}}}
{{defn|Grabbing the front of the opponent's belt, placing one's head against their chest, and lowering one's hips in an effort to lower one's center of gravity in order to force out an opponent.}}

{{term|Kunroku|{{nihongo||九六|Kunroku}}}}
{{defn|'Nine and six'. Japanese slang used to ridicule wrestlers who have a record of 9 wins and 6 losses in one tournament and do not have a double-digit record. It is often used for {{transliteration|ja|ōzeki}} who are then called {{transliteration|ja|kunroku ōzeki}}.}}

{{term|Kuroboshi|{{nihongo||黒星|Kuroboshi}}}}
{{defn|'Black star'. A loss in a sumo bout, recorded with a black circle.}}

{{term|Kyūjō|{{nihongo||休場|Kyūjō}}}}
{{defn|A wrestler's absence from a {{transliteration|ja|honbasho}}, usually due to injury.}}
{{glossary end}}

==M==
[[Image:Mono-ii.jpg|thumb|A {{transliteration|ja|mono-ii}}]]
{{glossary}}
{{term|Maegashira|{{nihongo||前頭|[[Maegashira]]}}}}
{{defn|'Those ahead'.{{citation needed|date=February 2024}} The fifth-highest rank of sumo wrestlers, and the lowest {{transliteration|ja|makuuchi}} rank. This rank makes up the bulk of the {{transliteration|ja|makuuchi}} division, comprising around 30 wrestlers depending on the number in {{transliteration|ja|san'yaku}}. Only the top ranks ({{nihongo||前頭上位|maegashira jō'i}}) normally fight against {{transliteration|ja|san'yaku}} wrestlers. Also sometimes referred to as {{nihongo||平幕|hiramaku}}, particularly when used in contrast to {{transliteration|ja|san'yaku}}.}}

{{term|Maemitsu|{{nihongo||前褌|Maemitsu}}}}
{{defn|Front of the {{transliteration|ja|mawashi}}. Often referred to as a {{transliteration|ja|maemitsu}} grip, when one has a hold of the front of the {{transliteration|ja|mawashi}}.}}

{{term|Maesabaki|{{nihongo||前裁き|Maesabaki}}}}
{{defn|Preliminary actions to knock away or squeeze the hands of one's opponent, in order to achieve an advantageous position.}}

{{term|Maezumō|{{nihongo||前相撲|Maezumō}}}}
{{defn|'Before sumo'. Unranked sumo wrestlers in their first bouts. Participation in at least one {{transliteration|ja|maezumō}} bout is required to enter the {{transliteration|ja|jonokuchi}} division for the following {{transliteration|ja|[[honbasho]]}}.}}

{{term|Make-koshi|{{nihongo||負け越し|Make-koshi}}}}
{{defn|More losses than wins for a wrestler in a tournament. {{transliteration|ja|Make-koshi}} generally results in demotion, although there are special rules on demotion for {{transliteration|ja|ōzeki}}. The opposite is {{transliteration|ja|kachi-koshi}}.}}

{{term|Maki|{{nihongo||巻|Maki}}}}
{{defn|Long scroll prepared by the {{transliteration|ja|[[gyōji]]}} before each [[honbasho|main tournament]], on which is written in calligraphy the names of all the east and west wrestlers by ranks. The scroll allow the {{transliteration|ja|[[judge (sumo)|shimpan]]}} to prepare the matches. The results of each wrestler are written next to the kanji of his {{transliteration|ja|[[shikona]]}}. Above his name are written the names of those he defeated and below those who defeated him. The kanji {{nihongo|kagami|鏡}}, meaning "mirror", is written at the top of each scroll to indicates that there is no bad intention or mistake in the organisation of the bouts.}} {{citation needed|date=February 2024}}

{{term|Makikae|{{nihongo||巻き替え|Makikae}}}}
{{defn|Changing from an overarm to an underarm grip on one's opponent's belt. If done properly can lead to a speedy victory, however if not done properly will often end in quick defeat.}}

{{term|Makushita|{{nihongo||幕下|[[Makushita]]}}}}
{{defn|'Below the curtain'. The third highest division of sumo wrestlers, below {{transliteration|ja|jūryō}} and above {{transliteration|ja|sandanme}}. Originally the division right below {{transliteration|ja|makuuchi}}, explaining its name, before {{transliteration|ja|jūryō}} was split off from it to become the new second highest division.}}

{{term|Makushita tsukedashi|{{nihongo||幕下付け出し|Makushita tsukedashi}}}}
{{defn|A system where an amateur wrestler that has finished in the top eight in designated amateur tournaments is allowed to skip the bottom three divisions and enter pro sumo at the bottom of the {{transliteration|ja|makushita}} division. The original system has existed since the [[Taishō period]], and until 1966 any wrestler who was a university graduate could enter pro sumo at the bottom of {{transliteration|ja|makushita}}. The system was changed in 1966, and from then until 2001 a wrestler who had achieved success as an amateur would begin at the rank of {{transliteration|ja|makushita}} 60, though the criteria were not as strict at the time. From 2001 until 2023, any wrestler who had won one of the four major amateur titles was allowed to start their sumo career at {{transliteration|ja|makushita}} 15; those that won two of those titles in the same year could start at {{transliteration|ja|makushita}} 10. (See also {{transliteration|ja|[[#sandanme tsukedashi|sandanme tsukedashi]]}}.)}}

{{term|Makuuchi|{{nihongo||幕内|[[Makuuchi]]}} or {{nihongo||幕の内|maku-no-uchi}}}}
{{defn|'Inside the curtain'. The top division in sumo. It is named for the curtained-off waiting area once reserved for professional wrestlers during {{transliteration|ja|basho}}, and comprises 42 wrestlers.}}

{{term|Man'in onrei|{{nihongo||満員御礼|Man'in onrei}}}}
{{defn|'Full house'. Banners are unfurled from the ceiling when this is achieved during {{transliteration|ja|[[honbasho]]}}. However, it is not necessary to be at 100% capacity to unfurl the banner. Typically when seats are over 80% filled the banner is unfurled, however they have been unfurled with numbers as low as 75% and not unfurled with numbers as high as 95%.}}

{{term|Matawari|{{nihongo||股割り|Matawari}}}}
{{defn|'Split'. An exercise in which a wrestler sits on the ground with his legs wide apart, then lowers his torso to touch the ground between his legs.}}

{{term|Matta|{{nihongo||待った|Matta}}}}
{{defn|False start. When the wrestlers do not have mutual consent in the start of the match and one of the wrestlers starts before the other wrestler is ready, a {{transliteration|ja|matta}} is called, and the match is restarted. Typically the wrestler who is at fault for the false start (often this is both of them; one for giving the impression that he was ready to the other and the other for moving before his opponent was ready) will bow to the judges in apology. The first [[kanji]] means 'to wait', indicating that the match must wait until both wrestlers are ready.}}

{{term|Mawashi|{{nihongo||廻し|[[Mawashi]]}}}}
{{defn|The thick-waisted loincloth worn for sumo training and competition. {{transliteration|ja|Mawashi}} worn by {{transliteration|ja|sekitori}} wrestlers are white cotton for training and colored silk for competition; lower ranks wear dark cotton for both training and competition.}}

{{term|Mawashi matta|{{nihongo||まわし待った|Mawashi matta}}}}
{{defn|'Mawashi break'. The interruption of a match at the discretion of the {{transliteration|ja|[[gyōji]]}} in order to reattach a wrestler's {{transliteration|ja|[[mawashi]]}}.}}

{{term|Mawashi uchiwa|{{nihongo||回し団扇|Mawashi uchiwa}}}}
{{defn|'Rotating fan'. An action in which a {{transliteration|ja|[[gyōji]]}} who has mistakenly declared victory to the loser immediately redirects his {{transliteration|ja|[[gunbai]]}} to the winner to cover up the misjudgment.}}

{{term|Me ga aku|{{nihongo||目が明く|Me ga aku}}}}
{{defn|'To regain sight'. A wrestler who has been on a losing streak since the first day of the tournament gets his first victory.}}

{{term|Mizu-iri|{{nihongo||水入り|Mizu-iri}}}}
{{defn|Water break. When a match goes on for around four minutes, the {{transliteration|ja|[[gyōji]]}} will stop the match for a water break for the safety of the wrestlers. In the two {{transliteration|ja|[[sekitori]]}} divisions, he will then place them back in exactly the same position to resume the match, while lower division bouts are restarted from the {{transliteration|ja|[[tachi-ai]]}}.}}
 
{{term|Mochikyūkin|{{nihongo||持ち給金|[[Mochikyūkin]]}}}}
{{defn|A system of bonus payments to {{transliteration|ja|[[sekitori]]}} wrestlers.}}

{{term|Mono-ii|{{nihongo||物言い|Mono-ii}}}}
{{defn|The discussion held by the {{transliteration|ja|shimpan}} when the {{transliteration|ja|gyōji}}'s decision for a bout is called into question. Technically, the term refers to the querying of the decision: the resulting discussion is a {{transliteration|ja|kyogi}}. Literally means, a "talk about things".}}

{{term|Moro-zashi|{{nihongo||両差し|Moro-zashi}}}}
{{defn|Deep double underarm grip which prevents the opponent from grabbing the belt.}}

{{term|Moshi-ai|{{nihongo||申し合い|Moshi-ai}}}}
{{defn|Practice bouts where the winner stays on and then chooses his next opponent. He will continue to fight until he has lost.}}

[[File:Sumoworkout.JPG|thumb|A {{transliteration|ja|mukade-suriashi}} at [[Ōshima stable (2022)|Tomozuma stable]]]]
{{term|Mukade-suriashi|{{nihongo||ムカデすり足|Mukade-suriashi}}}}
{{defn|'Centipede sliding feet'. Sumo exercise in which wrestlers turn around the {{transliteration|ja|dohyō}} in coordination while squatting down in a [[conga line]].}}

{{term|Mushōbu|{{nihongo||無勝負|Mushōbu}}}}
{{defn|'No result'. A kind of draw; the {{transliteration|ja|[[gyōji]]}} does not count a win or a loss. This outcome was recognised in the [[Edo period]].}}

{{term|Musubi no ichiban|{{nihongo||結びの一番|Musubi no ichiban}}}}
{{defn|The final bout of the day.}}
{{glossary end}}

==N==
{{glossary}}
{{term|Nakabi|{{nihongo||中日|Nakabi}}}}
{{defn|'Middle day'. The eighth day of a {{transliteration|ja|[[honbasho]]}}, always a Sunday.}}

{{term|Nakairi|{{nihongo||中入り|Nakairi}}}}
{{defn|The intermission between the {{transliteration|ja|[[jūryō]]}} and {{transliteration|ja|[[#makuuchi|makuuchi]]}} bouts.}}
[[File:Nakazori Takanoshō.jpg|thumb|[[Takanoshō]] getting a {{transliteration|ja|nakazori}} haircut.]]
{{term|Nakazori|{{nihongo||中剃り|Nakazori}}}}
{{defn|Shaving of the hairs at the top of the head to make it easier to tie the {{transliteration|ja|[[#chonmage|chonmage]]}}.}}

{{term|Negishi-ryū|{{nihongo||根岸流|Negishi-ryū}}}}
{{defn|The conservative style of [[Japanese calligraphy|calligraphy]] used in the {{transliteration|ja|banzuke}}. See {{transliteration|ja|[[#sumō-ji|sumō-ji]]}}.}}

{{term|Nekodamashi|{{nihongo||猫騙し|[[Nekodamashi]]}}}}
{{defn|Clapping of the hands at the {{transliteration|ja|[[tachi-ai]]}} to distract the opponent.}}

{{term|Nihon Sumō Kyōkai|{{nihongo||日本相撲協会|Nihon Sumō Kyōkai}}}}
{{defn|The [[Japan Sumo Association]], the governing body for professional sumo (called {{nihongo||大相撲|ōzumō}}).}}

{{term|Nihon Sumō Renmei|{{nihongo||日本相撲連盟|Nihon Sumō Renmei}}}}
{{defn|The {{ill|Japan Sumo Federation|ja|日本相撲連盟}}, a public interest corporation that oversees {{nihongo|amateur sumo|アマチュア相撲}} in Japan.}}

{{term|Niramiai|{{nihongo||睨み合い|Niramiai}}}}
{{defn|The staredown between sumo wrestlers before a match.}}

{{term|Nodowa|{{nihongo||喉輪|Nodowa}}}}
{{defn|Thrusting at an opponent's throat.}}

{{term|Nokkota|{{nihongo||残った|Nokotta}}}}
{{defn|Something the referee shouts during the bout indicating to the wrestler on defense that he is still in the ring. Literally translates as 'remaining' as in remaining in the ring.}}

{{term|Nyūmaku|{{nihongo||入幕|Nyūmaku}}}}
{{defn|'Into the curtain'. In sumo, a promotion from {{transliteration|ja|[[#jūryō|jūryō]]}} to {{transliteration|ja|[[#makuuchi|makuuchi]]}}. Also called {{nihongo||新入幕|shinnyūmaku}} for a wrestler newly promoted and {{nihongo||再入幕|sainyūmaku}} for a wrestler making a comeback to the top division.}}
{{glossary end}}

==O==
{{glossary}}
{{term|Ōichōmage|{{nihongo||大銀杏髷|Ōichōmage}}}}
{{defn|Literally 'ginkgo-leaf top-knot'. This is the hair style worn in tournaments by {{transliteration|ja|jūryō}} and {{transliteration|ja|makuuchi}} wrestlers. It is so named because the top-knot is fanned out on top of the head in a shape resembling a [[Ginkgo biloba|ginkgo leaf]]. It is only worn during formal events such as tournaments. Otherwise even top rankers will wear their hair in a {{transliteration|ja|chonmage}} style.}}

{{term|Okamisan|{{nihongo||女将さん|Okamisan}}}}
{{defn|Stablemaster's wife. She might oversee all the stable's activities except coaching.but now days she could simply just be the stable masters wife.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.japantimes.co.jp/sports/2018/06/06/sumo/army-okamisan-work-behind-scenes-keep-sumo-stables-running-smoothly/#.Wxgw7eSWymT|title=Army of okamisan work behind scenes to keep sumo stables running smoothly|last=Gunning|first=John|date=6 June 2018|publisher=Japan Times|access-date=8 September 2020}}</ref>}}

{{term|Onna-zumō|{{nihongo||女相撲|Onna-zumō}}}}
{{defn|[[Women's sumo|Sumo between female competitors]]. Women are [[Controversies in professional sumo#Women and sumo|not allowed to compete professionally]] or even touch a professional {{transliteration|ja|dohyō}}, but informal bouts between women did occur in the 18th century and women currently compete in amateur competitions.}}

{{term|Oshi-zumō|{{nihongo||押し相撲|Oshi-zumō}}}}
{{defn|There are two main types of wrestling in sumo: {{transliteration|ja|oshi-zumō}} and {{transliteration|ja|yotsu-zumō}}. {{transliteration|ja|Oshi-zumō}} literally translates as 'pushing sumo', and is more commonly referred to in English as a 'pusher' ({{transliteration|ja|oshi}})-thruster ({{transliteration|ja|tsuki}}). One who fights in the {{transliteration|ja|oshi-zumō}} style prefers fighting apart, not grabbing the belt as in {{transliteration|ja|yotsu-zumō}}, and usually winning with tactics of pushing, thrusting, and {{transliteration|ja|tsuppari}}. {{transliteration|ja|Oshi-zumō}} when done effectively can lead to a quick and decisive victory, but its exponents often fall prey to dodging motions or being slapped down, and may become helpless once the opponent gets a hold of their belt. {{transliteration|ja|Oshi-zumō}} fighters are generally thought of as simplistic, while {{transliteration|ja|yotsu-zumō}} fighters are seen more as technicians.}}

{{term|Otōtodeshi|{{nihongo||弟弟子|Otōtodeshi}}}}
{{defn|A junior disciple. Young low-ranker at a sumo [[heya (sumo)|stable]].}}

{{term|Ottsuke|{{nihongo||押っ付け|Ottsuke}}}}
{{defn|Technique of holding one's opponent's arm to prevent him from getting a hold on one's belt. Literally, 'push and affix' as in affixing the opponent's arm against one's body and preventing it from reaching the belt.}}

{{term|Oyakata|{{nihongo||親方|Oyakata}}}}
{{defn|A sumo coach, almost always the owner of one of the 105 name licenses ({{transliteration|ja|[[#toshiyori kabu|toshiyori kabu]]}}). Also used as a suffix as a personal honorific.}}

{{term|Ōzeki|{{nihongo||大関|[[Makuuchi#Ōzeki|Ōzeki]]}}}}
{{defn|'Great barrier', but usually translated as 'champion'. The second-highest rank of sumo wrestlers.}}

{{term|Ōzeki-tori|{{nihongo||大関取り or 大関とり|Ōzeki-tori}}}}
{{defn|A {{transliteration|ja|[[sekiwake]]}} ranked wrestler in a position of potential promotion to the rank of {{transliteration|ja|ōzeki}}.}}
{{glossary end}}

==R==
{{glossary}}
{{term|Rikishi|{{nihongo||力士|[[Rikishi]]}}}}
{{defn|Literally, 'powerful man'. The most common term for a professional sumo wrestler, although {{transliteration|ja|sumōtori}} is sometimes used instead.}}
{{glossary end}}

==S==
[[File:YokozunaJmills74.jpg|thumb|A {{transliteration|ja|yokozuna}} performing a {{transliteration|ja|shiko}}]]
[[File:Sumo Prime Minister Cup 09 Sep.jpg|thumb|The Prime Minister's Cup on display]]
[[File:Sumomoji sample.png|right|frame|{{transliteration|ja|Sumōmoji}} sample depicting the term {{transliteration|ja|[[edomoji]]}}]]

{{glossary}}
{{term|Sagari|{{nihongo||下がり|Sagari}}}}
{{defn|The strings inserted into the front of the {{transliteration|ja|mawashi}} for competition. The {{transliteration|ja|sagari}} of {{transliteration|ja|sekitori}} wrestlers are stiffened with a seaweed-based glue.}}

{{term|Sandan-gamae|{{nihongo||三段構え|Sandan-gamae}}}}
{{defn|A rare ceremony, performed by the two highest ranking wrestlers and a {{transliteration|ja|gyōji}} to demonstrate the "three stages" of sumo poise, seen only on special occasions. It has been performed only 24 times since the [[Meiji period]], most recently with [[Harumafuji]] and [[Kakuryū]] in 2016 and with [[Hakuhō]] and [[Kisenosato]] in 2017.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.japantimes.co.jp/sports/2021/06/02/sumo/terunofuji-takakeisho-double-yokozuna/|title=Dual yokozuna promotion could join list of recent rare events in sumo|last=Gunning|first=John|date=2 June 2021|work=Japan Times|access-date=4 June 2021}}</ref>}}

{{term|Sandanme|{{nihongo||三段目|[[Sandanme]]}}}}
{{defn|'Third level'. The third lowest division of sumo wrestlers, above {{transliteration|ja|jonidan}} and below {{transliteration|ja|makushita}}.}}

{{term|Sandanme tsukedashi|{{nihongo||三段目付け出し|Sandanme tsukedashi}}}}
{{defn|A system instituted in 2015 where an amateur wrestler finishing in the top 8 of either the All-Japan Championships, All-Japan Corporate Championships, National Student Championships, or the [[National Sports Festival of Japan|National Sports Festival]] Adults tournament was allowed to skip the bottom two divisions and start at the bottom of the {{transliteration|ja|sandanme}} division. In 2023 the system was changed, and those who now finish 9th through 16th in designated tournaments can start at the bottom of {{transliteration|ja|sandanme}}, while the top eight can start at the bottom of {{transliteration|ja|makushita}}. Also as of 2023, high school competitors placing in the top four in designated high school events are allowed to start at the bottom of {{transliteration|ja|sandanme}}. (See also {{transliteration|ja|[[#makushita tsukedashi|makushita tsukedashi]]}}.)}}

{{term|Sanshō|{{nihongo||三賞|[[sanshō (sumo)|Sanshō]]}}}}
{{defn|'Three prizes'. Special prizes awarded to {{transliteration|ja|makuuchi}} wrestlers for exceptional performance.}}

{{term|San'yaku|{{nihongo||三役|San'yaku}}}}
{{defn|'Three ranks'. The "titleholder" ranks at the top of sumo. There are actually four ranks in {{transliteration|ja|san'yaku}}: {{transliteration|ja|[[yokozuna (sumo)|yokozuna]]}}, {{transliteration|ja|[[Makuuchi#Ōzeki|ōzeki]]}}, {{transliteration|ja|[[sekiwake]]}} and {{transliteration|ja|[[komusubi]]}}, since the {{transliteration|ja|yokozuna}} is historically an {{transliteration|ja|ōzeki}} with a license to perform his own ring-entering ceremony. The word is occasionally used to refer only to {{transliteration|ja|sekiwake}} and {{transliteration|ja|komusubi}}.}}

{{term|San'yaku soroibumi|{{nihongo||三役揃い踏み|San'yaku soroibumi}}}}
{{defn|Ritual preceding the {{transliteration|ja|[[#kore yori san'yaku|kore yori san'yaku]]}} or final three bouts on the final day ({{transliteration|ja|[[#senshūraku|senshūraku]]}}) of a {{transliteration|ja|honbasho}}, where the six scheduled wrestlers, three from east side and three from the west side in turn perform {{transliteration|ja|shiko}} simultaneously on the {{transliteration|ja|[[dohyō]]}}.}}

{{term|San'yo|{{nihongo||参与|San'yo}}}}
{{defn|'Consultant'. Special rank in the {{transliteration|ja|toshiyori}} system in which {{transliteration|ja|oyakata}} are re-hired by the association as consultants on reduced pay for five years after mandatory retirement. {{As of|2024}}, there are six {{transliteration|ja|san'yo}} in the Japan Sumo Association.}}

{{term|Sekitori|{{nihongo||関取|[[Sekitori]]}}}}
{{defn|Literally 'taken the barrier'. Sumo wrestlers ranked {{transliteration|ja|[[jūryō]]}} or higher.}}

{{term|Sekiwake|{{nihongo||関脇|[[Sekiwake]]}}}}
{{defn|Literally 'next to the barrier'. The third-highest rank of sumo wrestlers.}}

{{term|Senshūraku|{{nihongo||千秋楽|Senshūraku}}}}
{{defn|The final day of a sumo tournament. {{transliteration|ja|Senshūraku}} literally translates as 'many years of comfort.' There are two possible explanations for the origins of this term. In {{transliteration|ja|[[gagaku]]}} (traditional Japanese court music) the term is tied with celebratory meaning to the last song of the day. In classic {{transliteration|ja|[[nōgaku]]}} theater there is a play known as {{transliteration|ja|Takasago}}, in which the term is used in a song at the end of the play. Today the term is used in [[kabuki]] and other types of performances as well.}}

{{term|Sewanin|{{nihongo||世話人|Sewanin}}}}
{{defn|'Assistant'. A retired wrestler (usually from the {{transliteration|ja|makushita}} division) who remains a member of the Sumo Association within his own stable to assist with various tasks, administrative or otherwise, in the stable and at tournaments and regional exhibitions.}}

{{term|Shikiri|{{nihongo||仕切り|Shikiri}}}}
{{defn|'Toeing the mark'.{{citation needed|date=February 2024}} The preparation period before a bout, during which the wrestlers stare each other down, crouch repeatedly, perform the ritual salt-throwing, and other tactics to try to gain a psychological advantage.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://the-japan-news.com/news/article/0006571391|title=Long and short of sumo's prematch ritual shikiri|last=Shuji|first=Miki|date=4 June 2020|work=The Japan News|access-date=4 June 2020|archive-date=4 June 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200604175646/https://the-japan-news.com/news/article/0006571391|url-status=dead}}</ref>}}

{{term|Shikiri-sen|{{nihongo||仕切り線|Shikiri-sen}}}}
{{defn|The two short white parallel lines in the middle of the ring that wrestlers must crouch behind before starting a bout. Introduced in the spring tournament of 1928, they are {{cvt|90|cm}} long, {{cvt|6|cm}} wide and placed {{cvt|70|cm}} apart using enamel paint.<ref>{{cite news|author=Gunning, John|url=https://www.japantimes.co.jp/sports/2019/07/14/sumo/sumo-101-shikiri-sen/|title=Sumo 101: Shikiri sen|newspaper=[[The Japan Times]]|date=July 14, 2019|access-date=December 25, 2020}}</ref>}}

{{term|Shiko|{{nihongo||四股|Shiko}}}}
{{defn|The sumo exercise where each leg in succession is lifted as high and as straight as possible, and then brought down to stomp on the ground with considerable force. In training this may be repeated hundreds of times in a row. {{transliteration|ja|Shiko}} is also performed ritually to drive away demons before each bout and as part of the {{transliteration|ja|yokozuna dohyō-iri}}.}}

{{term|Shikona|{{nihongo||四股名|[[Shikona]]}}}}
{{defn|A wrestler's 'fighting name' or '[[ring name]]', often a poetic expression which may contain elements specific to the wrestler's ''[[Heya (sumo)|heya]]''. Japanese wrestlers frequently do not adopt a {{transliteration|ja|shikona}} until they reach {{transliteration|ja|makushita}} or {{transliteration|ja|jūryō}}; foreign wrestlers adopt one on entering the sport. On rare occasions, a wrestler may fight under his original family name for his entire career, such as former {{transliteration|ja|ōzeki}} [[Dejima Takeharu|Dejima]] and former {{transliteration|ja|yokozuna}} [[Wajima Hiroshi|Wajima]].}}

{{term|Shimekomi|{{nihongo||締込|Shimekomi}}}}
{{defn|The silk {{transliteration|ja|[[mawashi]]}} worn by {{transliteration|ja|sekitori}} for competition.}}

{{term|Shimpan|{{nihongo||審判|[[judge (sumo)|Shimpan]]}}}}
{{defn|Ringside judges or umpires who may issue final rulings on any disputed decision. There are five {{transliteration|ja|shimpan}} for each bout, drawn from senior members of the {{transliteration|ja|Nihon Sumō Kyōkai}}, and wearing traditional formal kimono.}}

{{term|Shimpan-iin|{{nihongo||審判委員|Shimpan-iin}}}}
{{defn|'Umpire committee'. The {{transliteration|ja|shimpan}} as a group.}}

{{term|Shin-deshi|{{nihongo||新弟子|Shin-deshi}}}}
{{defn|'New pupil'. A new recruit into sumo.}}

{{term|Shingitai|{{nihongo||心技体|Shingitai}}}}
{{defn|'Heart, technique, and body': the three qualities of a wrestler. The most successful wrestlers will be strong in all three categories.}}

{{term|Shini-tai|{{nihongo||死に体|[[Shini-tai]]}}}}
{{defn|'Dead body'. A wrestler who was not technically the first to touch outside the ring but is nonetheless ruled the loser due to his opponent having put him in an irrecoverable position.<ref name="NHKQA">{{cite news|author=Morita, Hiroshi|url=https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/tv/sumo/qa/|title=Sumo Q&A|work=[[NHK World-Japan]]|access-date=December 25, 2020}}</ref>}}

{{term|Shinjo|{{nihongo||新序|Shinjo}}}}
{{defn|A designation given to wrestlers who had performed well in {{transliteration|ja|[[#maezumō|maezumō]]}} that allowed them to participate in {{transliteration|ja|jonokuchi}} in the same tournament. Additionally, if they performed well at this stage, they were allowed to skip straight to the {{transliteration|ja|jonidan}} rank in the next tournament. This system is no longer used.}}

{{term|Shinjo shusse hirō|{{nihongo||新序出世披露|Shinjo shusse hirō}}}}
{{defn|Occasion co-ordinated where new wrestlers who have been accepted into professional sumo are presented to audience; they wear borrowed {{transliteration|ja|[[keshō-mawashi]]}} during this ceremony which takes place on the middle Sunday of each tournament.<ref>{{cite book | last=Hall | first=Mina | title=The Big Book of Sumo | type=Paperback | publisher=Stone Bridge Press | year=1997 | location=Berkeley, CA, USA | isbn=978-1-880656-28-0 | page=[https://archive.org/details/bigbookofsumohis00hall/page/31 31] | url-access=registration | url=https://archive.org/details/bigbookofsumohis00hall/page/31 }}</ref>}}

{{term|Shiomaki|{{nihongo||塩撒き|Shiomaki}}}}
{{defn|One of the many rituals preceding a sumo bout, in which the wrestlers throw handfuls of salt before entering the {{transliteration|ja|dohyō}}. According to [[Shinto]] beliefs, salt possesses purifying properties; as they cast salt into the ring, the wrestlers would then be cleansing the {{transliteration|ja|dohyō}} of bad energy and possibly protecting themselves from injury. The average amount a wrestler grabs and throws is around {{cvt|200|g|oz}}, although some wrestlers throw up to {{cvt|500|g|oz}}.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hvc0oAg4TXg |title=Salt Tossing [塩まき] - SUMOPEDIA |website=YouTube |date=18 September 2019 |publisher=NHK WORLD-JAPAN |access-date=5 January 2022}}</ref>}}

{{term|Shiroboshi|{{nihongo||白星|Shiroboshi}}}}
{{defn|'White star'. A victory in a sumo bout, recorded with a white circle.}}

{{term|Shishō|{{nihongo||師匠|Shishō}}}}
{{defn|'Master, teacher'. A [[toshiyori|sumo elder]] in charge of a sumo stable.}}

{{term|Shitaku-beya|{{nihongo||支度部屋|Shitaku-beya}}}}
{{defn|'Preparation room'. Room in which wrestlers in the ranks of {{transliteration|ja|[[jūryō]]}} and above wait before their matches. This is where they will place their belongings, put on their belt, and warm up for their match.}}

{{term|Shokkiri|{{nihongo||初っ切り|Shokkiri}}}}
{{defn|A comedic sumo performance, a type of match common to exhibition matches and tours, similar in concept to the basketball games of the [[Harlem Globetrotters]]; often used to demonstrate examples of illegal moves.}}

{{term|Shonichi|{{nihongo||初日|Shonichi}}}}
{{defn|'First day'. The first day of a tournament, or the first win after a series of losses.}}

{{term|Shukun-shō|{{nihongo||殊勲賞|Shukun-shō}}}}
{{defn|Outstanding performance prize. One of three special prizes awarded to wrestlers for performance in a {{transliteration|ja|basho}}.}}

{{term|Shusshin|{{nihongo||出身|Shusshin}}}}
{{defn|'Birthplace' or 'place of origin'. Similar to the term ''fighting out of'' in sports like [[boxing]] or [[mixed martial art|MMA]]. {{transliteration|ja|[[Heya (sumo)|Heya]]}} are restricted to having no more than one wrestler whose {{transliteration|ja|shusshin}} is outside of Japan under normal circumstances.}}

{{term|Sōken|{{nihongo||総見|Sōken}}}}
{{defn|'General view'. An open {{transliteration|ja|makuuchi}} practise session ({{transliteration|ja|keiko}}) held by the Yokozuna Deliberation Council at the [[Ryōgoku Kokugikan]]. The session takes place in front of a considerable number of {{transliteration|ja|oyakata}} and many members of the sports and mainstream media. The event is usually filmed by different entities. After the workout, various specialists will voice their opinions on the state of the sport's top rankers.}}

{{term|Soppugata|{{nihongo||ソップ型|Soppugata}}}}
{{defn|In sumo slang, a thin wrestler. Opposite of {{transliteration|ja|[[#ankogata|ankogata]]}}.}}

{{term|Sōridaijin-hai|{{nihongo||総理大臣杯|[[List of sumo trophies#Main prizes|Sōridaijin-hai]]}}}}
{{defn|The Prime Minister's Cup; a ceremonial cup presented by the sitting [[Prime Minister of Japan]] or an intermediary to the {{transliteration|ja|makuuchi}} champion.}}

{{term|Sukiabura|{{nihongo||梳油|Sukiabura}}}}
{{defn|'Suki oil'.{{citation needed|date=February 2024}} A Japanese pomade similar to {{transliteration|ja|[[#binzuke|binzuke]]}} but cheaper to produce and now widely used for wrestlers' hair.}}

{{term|Sumō-ji|{{nihongo||相撲字|Sumō-ji}}}}
{{defn|Calligraphy style with very wide brushstrokes used to write the {{transliteration|ja|banzuke}}.}}

{{term|Sumōmoji|{{nihongo||相撲文字|[[edomoji|Sumōmoji]]}}}}
{{defn|See {{transliteration|ja|[[#sumō-ji|sumō-ji]]}}.}}

{{term|Sumōtori|{{nihongo||相撲取|Sumōtori}}}}
{{defn|Literally, 'one who does sumo'.{{citation needed|date=February 2024}} Sumo wrestler, but occasionally refers only to {{transliteration|ja|sekitori}}.}}

{{term|Suriashi|{{nihongo||摺り足|Suriashi}}}}
{{defn|'Sliding feet'. One of the basic sumo exercises, in which a wrestler cross a practice zone while squatting down, keeping his hips low and sliding his feet on the ground with their whole sole surface, not lifting them. Elbows and palms are facing up with arms close inside to imagine pushing an opponent.}}
{{glossary end}}

==T==
[[File:Teraotegata.jpg|thumb|A {{transliteration|ja|tegata}} made by [[Terao]]]]
[[File:Sumo Emperor Cup.JPG|thumb|Emperor's Cup on display]]
{{glossary}}
{{term|Tachi-ai|{{nihongo||立ち合い|[[Tachi-ai]]}}}}
{{defn|The initial charge at the beginning of a bout.}}

{{term|Tate-gyōji|{{nihongo||立行司|Tate-gyōji}}}}
{{defn|The two designated highest ranking {{transliteration|ja|[[gyōji]]}}, who preside over the last few bouts of a tournament day. The highest ranking {{transliteration|ja|gyōji}} takes the professional name Kimura Shōnosuke while the lower takes the name Shikimori Inosuke.}}

{{term|Tanimachi|{{nihongo||タニマチ|Tanimachi}}}}
{{defn|An individual supporter. The word comes from a district of Osaka where, at the beginning of the 20th century, a dentist who was a sumo fan treated wrestlers for free. {{transliteration|ja|Tanimachi}} can sponsor wrestlers when individually or grouped together in {{transliteration|ja|[[#koenkai|koenkai]]}}.}}

{{term|Tawara|{{nihongo||俵|Tawara}}}}
{{defn|Bales of rice straw. {{transliteration|ja|Tawara}} are half-buried in the clay of the {{transliteration|ja|dohyō}} to mark its boundaries.}}

{{term|Tegata|{{nihongo||手形|Tegata}}}}
{{defn|'Hand print'. A memento consisting of a wrestler's handprint in red or black ink and his {{transliteration|ja|shikona}} written by the wrestler in calligraphy on a square paperboard. It can be an original or a copy. A copy of a {{transliteration|ja|tegata}} may also be imprinted onto other memorabilia such as porcelain dishes. Only {{transliteration|ja|[[sekitori]]}} wrestlers are allowed to make hand prints.}}

{{term|Tegatana|{{nihongo||手刀|Tegatana}}}}
{{defn|'Knife hand'. After winning a match and accepting the prize money, the wrestler makes a ceremonial hand movement with a {{transliteration|ja|tegatana}} known as {{nihongo||手刀を切る|tegatana o kiru}} where he makes three cutting motions in the order of left, right, and center. It is done to show gratitude to the gods [[Kamimusubi]] (left), [[Takamimusubi]] (right), and [[Ame-no-Minakanushi]] (center).}}

{{term|Tennō-hai|{{nihongo||天皇杯|[[List of sumo trophies#Main prizes|Tennō-hai]]}}}}
{{defn|Emperor's Cup, awarded to the winner of the top division tournament championship since 1925.}}

{{term|Tenran-zumō|{{nihongo||天覧相撲|Tenran-zumō}}}}
{{defn|Sumo performed in front of the emperor. In the past women were forbidden from watching sumo, however nowadays the empress joins the emperor in watching sumo. They are escorted to their seats called {{nihongo||貴賓席|kihin-seki}}, which are only used by the royal family, by the Chairman of the [[Sumo Association]] who sits behind them and explains the happenings.}}

{{term|Teppō|{{nihongo||鉄炮|Teppō}}}}
{{defn|'Gun' or 'Cannon'. Wooden pole used for slapping and {{transliteration|ja|Tachi-ai}} training, intended to strengthen the wrestlers' wrists, arms and shoulders.}}

{{term|Tokoyama|{{nihongo||床山|[[Tokoyama]]}}}}
{{defn|Hairdressers employed by the [[Sumo Association]] to style the hair of wrestlers and to fashion the elaborate {{transliteration|ja|[[chonmage|ōichomage]]}} of {{transliteration|ja|[[sekitori]]}} for official tournaments and public engagements.}}

{{term|Tomoesen|{{nihongo||巴戦|Tomoesen}}}}
{{defn|A sumo play-off involving three wrestlers who are separated in east, west and neutral. The play-off begins with the eastern wrestler competing with the western. If the eastern wrestler win, he then faces the neutral. If the eastern wins again, he wins the tournament. If not, the neutral wrestler remains on the {{transliteration|ja|dohyō}} and wrestles with the western wrestler. If the neutral wins again, he wins the tournament, and so on – the first to win two in a row wins the tournament.}}

{{term|Torikumi|{{nihongo||取組|Torikumi}}}}
{{defn|A bout during a tournament. May also refer to a day's bout schedule.}}

{{term|Torinaoshi|{{nihongo||取り直し|Torinaoshi}}}}
{{defn|A rematch. When the result of a bout is too close to call even after the {{transliteration|ja|shimpan}} hold a {{transliteration|ja|mono-ii}}, they may call for the bout to be re-fought from the {{transliteration|ja|tachi-ai}}.}}

{{term|Toriteki|{{nihongo||取的|Toriteki}}}}
{{defn|Opposite of {{transliteration|ja|[[#msekitori|sekitori]]}}. Refers to every wrestlers ranked from {{transliteration|ja|makushita}} and below, it often refers only to the {{transliteration|ja|jonidan}} and {{transliteration|ja|jonokuchi}}.}}

{{term|Toshiyori|{{nihongo||年寄|[[Toshiyori]]}}}}
{{defn|A sumo elder.}}

{{term|Toshiyori kabu|{{nihongo||年寄株|[[toshiyori|Toshiyori kabu]]}}}}
{{defn|'Elder share'. A named coaching licence of which there are 105, which a recently retired {{transliteration|ja|sekitori}} used to buy from its previous owner or inherit from his father or father-in-law. Today, the wrestlers submit their wish to receive a {{transliteration|ja|kabu}} to the Association; which examines their candidacy and distributes the titles.}}

{{term|Tsukebito|{{nihongo||付け人|Tsukebito}}}}
{{defn|A {{transliteration|ja|rikishi}} in the lower divisions who serves as a personal attendant to a {{transliteration|ja|sekitori}}-ranked wrestler.}}

{{term|Tsuna|{{nihongo||綱|Tsuna}}}}
[[File:Harumafuji Kohei IMG 5592-1 20170304.jpg|thumb|[[Harumafuji Kōhei|Harumafuji Kohei]] wearing a ''tsuna'']]
{{defn|The heavy rope worn by the {{transliteration|ja|yokozuna}} from which that rank takes its name. It weighs about {{cvt|15|kg}}, and is much thicker in front than where it is tied in back. Five {{transliteration|ja|[[Shide (Shinto)|shide]]}}, zig-zag paper strips symbolizing lightning, hang from the front. It strongly resembles the {{transliteration|ja|[[shimenawa]]}} used to mark sacred areas in [[Shinto]].}}

{{term|Tsunatori|{{nihongo||綱取り|Tsunatori}}}}
{{defn|An {{transliteration|ja|[[Makuuchi#Ōzeki|ōzeki]]}} in a position of potential promotion to the supreme rank of {{transliteration|ja|[[yokozuna]]}}. Generally, promotion requires two consecutive championships or a similar performance.}}

{{term|Tsunauchi|{{nihongo||綱打ち|Tsunauchi}}}}
{{defn|A ceremony in which a ''tsuna'' of a current or former ''yokozuna'' is created by other sumo wrestlers and presented.}}

{{term|Tsuppari|{{nihongo||突っ張り|Tsuppari}}}}
{{defn|To rapidly deliver {{nihongo||張り手|harite}} or 'open hand strikes' to the opponent. This technique is frequently employed by {{transliteration|ja|oshi-zumō}} wrestlers.}}

{{term|Tsuriyane|{{nihongo||吊り屋根|Tsuriyane}}}}
{{defn|'Suspended roof'. A {{convert|6.5|t|adj=on}} structure held in place by {{cvt|2.2|cm|adj=on}} thick wires that can bear almost five times as much weight. It is modeled after the {{transliteration|ja|[[shinmei-zukuri]]}} architectural style typical of Shinto shrines. Four differently-colored tassels ({{transliteration|ja|fusa}}) are hung from it, representing the [[Four Symbols|four spirits]] and replace the previous columns that used to maintain the roof.}}
{{glossary end}}

==W==
{{glossary}}
{{term|Wakaimonogashira|{{nihongo||若い者頭|Wakaimonogashira}}}}
{{defn|'Youth leader'. A retired wrestler (usually a former {{transliteration|ja|jūryō}} or {{transliteration|ja|maegashira}}) who is a functionary of the Sumo Association, working with new recruits at his former stable or associated {{transliteration|ja|[[ichimon]]}}, and who also arranges {{transliteration|ja|[[#maezumō|maezumō]]}} matches.}}

{{term|Waki ga amai|{{nihongo||脇が甘い|Waki ga amai}}}}
{{defn|'Soft side'. A poor defense to prevent one's opponent from getting an underarm grip.}}

{{term|Waki ga katai|{{nihongo||脇が堅い|Waki ga katai}}}}
{{defn|'Hard side'. Antonym of {{transliteration|ja|waki ga amai}}. A good defense in which the elbow is attached to the flank to prevent an opponent's move.}}

{{term|Wanpaku-zumo|{{nihongo||腕白相撲|Wanpaku-zumo}}}}
{{defn|'Naughty sumo'. {{transliteration|ja|Wanpaku}} is a Japanese term for a child, especially a boy, who does not obey and goes on a rampage. {{transliteration|ja|Wanpaku-zumo}} is sumo for elementary school-aged children. The Wanpaku Sumo National Championship is organized by JCI Tokyo and the [[Japan Sumo Federation]]. Its national final is held at the [[Ryōgoku Kokugikan]] and the winner is crowned Elementary school {{transliteration|ja|yokozuna}}.}}
{{glossary end}}

==Y==
[[File:Sumo bow-twirling ceremony May 2014 004.jpg|thumb|The {{transliteration|ja|yumitori-shiki}} ceremony, performed by [[Satonofuji]].]]
[[File:Yumitori shiki.ogv|thumb|Video of a {{transliteration|ja|yumitori-shiki}}]]

{{glossary}}
{{term|Yachin ga takai|{{nihongo||家賃が高い|Yachin ga takai}}}}
{{defn|A sumo wrestler who is ranked too highly for his abilities and gets poor results.}}

{{term|Yamaiku|{{nihongo||やまいく|Yamaiku}}}}
{{defn|In sumo slang, getting sick or getting injured.}}

{{term|Yaochō|{{nihongo||八百長|[[Yaochō]]}}}}
{{defn|'Put-up job' or 'fixed game', referring to a bout with a predetermined outcome.}}

{{term|Yobiage|{{nihongo||呼び上げ|Yobiage}}}}
{{defn|The formal call made by the ''[[yobidashi]]'' in the ring. Depending on their rank, the ''[[sekitori]]''-ranked wrestlers called may receive two ''yobiage'' to mark their status.}}

{{term|Yobidashi|{{nihongo||呼出 or 呼び出し|[[Yobidashi]]}}}}
{{defn|Usher or announcer. General assistants at tournaments. They call the wrestlers to the {{transliteration|ja|dohyō}} before their bouts, build the {{transliteration|ja|dohyō}} prior to a tournament and maintain it between bouts, display the advertising banners before sponsored bouts, maintain the supply of ceremonial salt and {{transliteration|ja|chikara-mizu}}, and any other needed odd jobs.}}

{{term|Yoisho|{{nihongo||n|Yoisho}}}} 
{{defn|The chants that spectators shout when sumo wrestlers stomp their feet.}}

{{term|Yokata|{{nihongo||世方|Yokata}}}}
{{defn|People outside the sumo world.}}

{{term|Yokozuna|{{nihongo||横綱|[[yokozuna (sumo)|Yokozuna]]}}}}
{{defn|'Horizontal rope'. The top rank in sumo, usually translated 'Grand Champion'. The name comes from the rope a {{transliteration|ja|yokozuna}} wears for the {{transliteration|ja|dohyō-iri}}. See {{transliteration|ja|[[#tsuna|tsuna]]}}.}}

{{term|Yokozuna-kai|{{nihongo||横綱会|Yokozuna-kai}}}}
{{defn|An event held every year after the Kyūshū tournament, where former and current {{transliteration|ja|yokozuna}} gather together. It has a long history, dating back to 1953. In recent years, it takes place as a dinner party held once a year at first-class hotels and high-class restaurants in [[Fukuoka|Fukuoka-city]]. It is also perceived as a hall of fame of sumo, as only those who stand or stood at the very top of the ranking are allowed to participate.}}

{{term|Yokozuna Shingi Kai|{{nihongo||横綱審議会|Yokozuna Shingi Kai}} or {{nihongo||横綱審議委員会|Yokozuna Shingi Iinkai}}}}
{{defn|'[[Yokozuna Deliberation Council]]'. A body formed in 1950 whose 15 members are drawn from outside the Japan Sumo Association, that meets following each {{transliteration|ja|honbasho}} to consider candidates for promotion to {{transliteration|ja|yokozuna}}. A recommendation is passed back to the Sumo Association who have the final say. It also offers opinions on the performance of current {{transliteration|ja|yokozuna}}.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/14669901|title=Actress's love of sumo pays off big time with post on yokozuna council|date=1 August 2022|work=Asahi Shimbun|access-date=18 August 2022}}</ref>}}

{{term|Yosedaiko|{{nihongo||寄せ太鼓|Yosedaiko}}}}
{{defn|'Gather around drum'.  Drums sounded in the morning of a tournament to draw the crowds. Usually performed from the tower in front of the [[Ryōgoku Kokugikan]], the drummers perform in front of the entrance during {{transliteration|ja|jungyo}}.}}

{{term|Yotsumi|{{nihongo||四つ身|Yotsumi}}}}
{{defn|A cross-grips situation in which each wrestler has an underarm grip on his opponent.}}

{{term|Yotsu-zumō|{{nihongo||四つ相撲|Yotsu-zumō}}}}
{{defn|There are two main types of wrestling in sumo: {{transliteration|ja|oshi-zumō}} and {{transliteration|ja|yotsu-zumō}}. {{transliteration|ja|Yotsu-zumō}} is where both wrestlers grasp the other's belt with both hands, hence the literal translation: 'four sumo' or 'four hands on the {{transliteration|ja|mawashi}} sumo'. There are a few sub-types of {{transliteration|ja|yotsu-zumō}}. {{nihongo||右四つ|Migi-yotsu}} is when one has {{nihongo||差して|sashite}} on the right ({{transliteration|ja|migi}}), meaning that one has his right hand under his opponent's left arm and grasping his {{transliteration|ja|mawashi}}. {{transliteration|ja|Hidari-yotsu}} is the opposite where one's left ({{transliteration|ja|hidari}}) hand is inside the opponent's right arm. A {{transliteration|ja|yotsu-zumō}} fighter will typically prefer left or right and is referred to as {{transliteration|ja|migi-yotsu}} or {{transliteration|ja|hidari-yotsu}} fighter. If one has no preference, they are referred to as {{nihongo||鈍ら四つ|namakura-yotsu}}, where {{transliteration|ja|namakura}} literally translates as 'lazy' or 'cowardly', suggesting that having no preference is seen in a negative light. There is one other final {{transliteration|ja|yotsu}} grip known as {{nihongo||両差し|moro-zashi}}, literally '{{transliteration|ja|sashite}} on both sides', where both hands are inside and is a very strong grip. The only real defense for a {{transliteration|ja|moro-zashi}} grip is the {{nihongo||極めだし|kimedashi}} technique where the defending wrestler wraps both of his arms over the {{transliteration|ja|moro-zashi}} grip and locks his hands underneath, which squeezes the double inside grip together, weakening it, and allowing one to force the opponent out of the ring. {{transliteration|ja|Kime-dashi}} is also known as {{nihongo||閂|kannuki}} (usually written in hiragana as {{lang|ja|かんぬき}}), and means 'to bolt' or 'to bar'. When two wrestlers who both fight in the {{transliteration|ja|yotsu-zumō}} style oppose each other and favor the same style grip, either {{transliteration|ja|migi-yotsu}} or {{transliteration|ja|hidari-yotsu}}, then they will fit together nicely in what is called {{nihongo||相四つ|ai-yotsu}}, or together {{transliteration|ja|yotsu}}. If however they are of opposite preferences, then it is known as {{nihongo||喧嘩四つ|kenka-yotsu}}, literally fighting {{transliteration|ja|yotsu}}. In this situation, whoever gets his preferred grip is usually the victor.}}

{{term|Yumitori-shiki|{{nihongo||弓取式|Yumitori-shiki}}}}
{{defn|The bow-twirling ceremony performed at the end of each {{transliteration|ja|honbasho}} day by a designated wrestler, the {{transliteration|ja|yumitori}}, who is usually from the {{transliteration|ja|makushita}} division or under, and is usually a member of a {{transliteration|ja|yokozuna}}'s stable (in the absence of a ''yokozuna'', then they are a member of the stable of the highest ranking ''rikishi'' present.}}

{{term|Yurufun|{{nihongo||ゆるふん|Yurufun}}}}
{{defn|A loosely tightened {{transliteration|ja|[[mawashi]]}}. Can be used on purpose to incapacitate wrestlers specializing in {{transliteration|ja|[[#yotsu-zumō|yotsu-zumō]]}}. {{transliteration|ja|Fun}} is an abbreviation of {{transliteration|ja|fundoshi}}.}}

{{term|Yūshō|{{nihongo||優勝|[[Yūshō]]}}}}
{{defn|A tournament championship in any division, awarded to the wrestler who wins the most bouts.}}

{{term|Yūshō arasoi|{{nihongo||優勝争い|Yūshō arasoi}}}}
{{defn|'Struggle for victory'. The championship race. Used to denote the ranking of wrestlers who can win the title near the end of the tournament.}}

{{glossary end}}

==Z==
{{glossary}}
{{term|Zanbara|{{nihongo||ざんばら|Zanbara}}}}
{{defn|Loose and disheveled hair. Term for style of hair before wrestler's hair is long enough to put in {{transliteration|ja|chonmage}} hair style. When seen in upper divisions it is a sign of a wrestler who has come up the ranks quickly as his hair has not yet had a chance to grow to a length in which it can be tied into a {{transliteration|ja|chonmage}}. In succession a wrestler starts with the {{transliteration|ja|zanbara}} style, then moves to the {{transliteration|ja|chonmage}} style, and then finally the {{transliteration|ja|ōichōmage}} style, which can only be worn by wrestlers in the top two divisions.}}

{{term|Zenshō|{{nihongo||全勝|Zenshō}}}}
{{defn|A [[perfect season|perfect tournament]] where, depending on the division, the wrestler finishes 15–0 or 7–0 in the tournament.}}
{{glossary end}}

==References==
{{Reflist}}

==External links==
{{wiktionary|Category:Sumo}}
* [http://www.sumoforum.net/glossary.html Glossary of Sumo Terms]
* [http://www.chijanofuji.com/Glossary.html Sumo Glossary]
* [https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/tv/sumo/sumopedia/ Sumopedia] at [[NHK World-Japan]]

{{Glossaries of sports}}

[[Category:Glossaries of sports|Sumo]]
[[Category:Sumo-related lists]]
[[Category:Sumo terminology| ]]
[[Category:Wikipedia glossaries using description lists]]