The raised part of astable training room (keikoba) next to thedohyō on which theoyakata and any guests sit to observe training.
Akeni (明荷)
The luggage box of wrestlers andgyōji evolving in thesekitori divisions.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.Yokozuna are typically allowed to use three boxes as they have more regalia.
Amazumo (アマ相撲)
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.
Ankogata (アンコ型)
In sumo slang, a wrestler with a big belly. Opposite ofsoppugata.
Anideshi (兄弟子)
A senior low-ranker at a sumostable. Tasked with enforcing discipline and instructing the basics ofheya life to theotōtodeshi.
Azukari (預り)
'Hold' or 'no decision', a kind ofdraw. After amono-ii, thegyōji or theshimpan "holds" the result if it was too close to call,[1] which is recorded with a white triangle. In 1927, the system was abolished and atorinaoshi (rematch) now takes place instead; the lastazukari was recorded in 1951.[1][2]
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 (seesumō-ji) and usually released on the Monday 13 days prior to the first day of the tournament.
Banzuke-gai (番付外)
'Outsider to the list'. A wrestler who is not yet ranked, or has fallen off thebanzuke due to injury or other reason for non-participation.[3]
Bariki (馬力)
'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 orsake into a bowl the same size as a rice bowl and eatchanko 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 bigrice wine cup (sakazuki).
'God of poverty'. In sumo ranking, the topjūryō wrestlers. Topjūryō wrestlers are often called to bout withmakuuchi wrestlers, but their income stays at that of ajūryō.
Binzuke (鬢付け)
Also calledbinzuke abura ('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 bytokoyama hairdressers.
Butsukari (ぶつかり)
'Collision'. A junior wrestler pushes a more senior wrestler (in a resistance position and presenting his torso) with force across thedohyō in order to build strength and learn hand placement. A demanding exercise that is repeated until exhaustion.
A stew commonly eaten in large quantities by sumo wrestlers as part of a weight gain diet. It containsdashi or stock with sake ormirin to add flavor. The bulk ofchankonabe 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.).
'Power-water'. The ladleful of water with which a wrestler ranked injūryō or above will ceremonially rinse out his mouth in order to purify himself prior to a bout. The water is prepared by ayobidashi that draws water from the bucket with a ladle and hands it to the winning wrestler of the previous bout (known as thekachi-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 thechikara-gami to the next wrestler.
Chikara-gami (力紙)
'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 thechikara-mizu (力水) described above.
Chirichōzu (塵手水)
'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.
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.
Retirement ceremony, held for a top wrestler in theRyōgoku Kokugikan some months after retirement, in which hischonmage, or top knot, is cut off. A wrestler must have fought as asekitori in at least 30 tournaments to qualify for a ceremony at the Kokugikan.[4]
Deashi (出足)
Constant forward movement. Term used to refer to when a wrestler continuously moves forward as opposed to moving backwards or being moved backwards.
'Going out to practice'. A practice session between wrestlers of competing stables. Generally organized between stables of a sameichimon.
Denshamichi (電車道)
'Railroad'. Refers to a style ofoshi-zumō where an opponent is blasted backward and quickly driven over the edges of the ring by aggressive attacks.
Deshi (弟子)
An apprentice. Generally used to describe every lower-ranked wrestler (makushita and below) in a stable. Also used to call every wrestler trained by theshishō or a more senior wrestler.
Dezuiri (手数入り)
Ayokozuna dohyo-iri performed as part of the New Year celebration at theMeiji Shrine in Tokyo.
The ring in which the sumo wrestlers hold their matches, made of a specific clay and spread with sand. A newdohyō is built prior to each tournament.
Dohyō-iri (土俵入り)
Ring-entering ceremony, performed only by the wrestlers in thejūryō andmakuuchi divisions. The east and west sides perform theirdohyō-iri together, in succession; theyokozuna have their own individualdohyō-iri performed separately. The main styles ofyokozuna dohyō-iri are Unryū and Shiranui, named afterUnryū Kyūkichi andShiranui Kōemon (although it is now believed each performed the style named for the other). Ayokozuna performs the ceremony with two attendants, thetachimochi (太刀持ち) or sword carrier, and thetsuyuharai (露払い) or dew sweeper.
Dohyō matsuri (土俵祭)
'Ring Festival'. AShinto ceremony in which thedohyō is purified and blessed prior to eachbasho. A headgyoji takes the role of a priest and reads anorito (calledKojitsugonjo (故実言上)). He then pours sake on the four corners of the ring and bury six good luck items which calledShizumemono (washed rice, dried chest nuts, dried squid, dried kelp, salt andTorreya nucifera fruits), in a center of the ring, then pour sake there. Afure-daiko procession then takes place to formally open the tournament period. Thedohyō matsuri can also happen in thestable to bless thekeikoba.
'Sold out,' meaning that seats are 100% sold out. In contrast toman'in onrei which means full house and can be claimed when seats are anywhere between 75–95% filled, depending on what the officials decide.
Also pronouncedmitsu. General term referring to a loincloth, ornamental apron, ormawashi.
Fundoshikatsugi (褌担ぎ)
'Loincloth shoulder'.[citation needed] An apprenticetsukebito. An attendant who carries light cargo.
Fure-daiko (ふれ太鼓)
Also pronouncedfure-taiko. Ataiko drum procession to announce the start of a sumo wrestling event. On the day before the start ofEdo period'shonbasho,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'syobidashi parade around thedohyō after thedohyō matsuri ceremony in theRyōgoku Kokugikan and in the nearby streets and shops of sumostables.
Fusenpai (不戦敗)
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.
Fusenshō (不戦勝)
A win by default because of the absence of the opponent. The system was established for thehonbasho in the May 1927 tournament. After the issue ofHitachiiwa 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.
Technique prize. One of three special prizes awarded torikishi for performance in abasho.
Gomenfuda (御免札)
A vertical wooden sign erected at the entrance of the arena to announce the date of thehonbasho and to show, during the Edo period, that the tournament was allowed by the authorities.
Gomenkōmuru (蒙御免)
'Performing with permission'. A sumo term written on top of thebanzuke andgomenfuda. Dating back to the Edo period to show that the tournament was authorized by the temple magistrates, where sumo tournaments where usually held.
Goningake (五人掛け)
Also known asgoningakari (五人掛かり). 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 anAminishiki Ryūji's retirement ceremony,yokozunaTerunofuji faced simultaneouslyAtamifuji,Midorifuji,Nishikifuji,Terutsuyoshi andTakarafuji.
Makuuchi wrestlers perform agozengakari dohyo-iri towardEmperor Shōwa in 1957
Gozengakari (御前掛かり)
Specialmakuuchidohyō-iri performed duringtenran-zumō.Makuuchi-ranked wrestlers (frommaegashira toōzeki) face the emperor's rostrum in ranks, dressed inkeshō-mawashi, the lower the rank the closer to the emperor. They then performshiko and squat. They are then called by theirshikona, 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 thegozengakari was in January 2007 when EmperorAkihito came to theRyōgoku Kokugikan.
A war fan, usually made of wood, used by thegyōji 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.
Gunbai-dōri (軍配通り)
The decision following amono-ii affirming the original decision of thegyōji. Literally, 'according to thegunbai'.
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.
Hanamichi (花道)
The two main east and west "paths" leading from the preparation rooms to thedohyō.
Hanedaiko (跳ね太鼓)
Drums sounded at the end of a tournament day inviting spectators to return the tomorrow.
'Half body'. In martial arts, a stance with legs in an L-shape, with one leg bent in front and other extended behind.
Hansoku (反則)
'Foul' or 'infraction.' Denoted in official records whenever a forbidden move is used in a sumo contest (seekinjite).Hansoku can also be called for certain violations, such as a wrestler'smawashi becoming undone.
Haridashi (張り出し)
'Overhang'. If there are more than two wrestlers at anysan'yaku rank, the additional wrestlers are termedharidashi. Prior to 1995, such wrestlers were listed on thebanzuke in extensions or "overhangs" to the row formakuuchi wrestlers. This is now an informal designation, since presently all wrestlers are listed within the normal bounds of the row.
Hassotobi (八艘飛び)
'Eight-boat jump'. A kind ofhenka in which a wrestler jumps vertically at thetachi-ai in an attempt to avoid the opponent's charge. The name derives from the Japanese epicThe Tale of the Heike, in which the samuraiMinamoto no Yoshitsune leapt from boat to boat eight times to avoid his enemies.
Hatsukuchi (初口)
The first match of a division on a tournament day.
Hazuoshi (筈押し)
Pushing up with hands under opponent's armpits.Hazu refers to the nock of an arrow where it makes contact with the bow string.Hazu can also mean the nock-shaped area of the hand between the thumb and forefinger, so in this case means using thehazu 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.
Henka (変化)
A sidestep performed at thetachi-ai to avoid an attack and set up aslap-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,henka meaning 'change; variation'. Any other kind of sidestepping maneuver done after the tachi-ai is called aninashi, meaning "a parry, sidestep or dodge".[5]
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 pronouncedbeya in compounds, such as in the name of the stable. (For example, theheya namedSadogatake is calledSadogatake-beya.)
Heyagashira (部屋頭)
The highest-ranked active wrestler in a stable (orheya).
Higi (非技)
'Non-technique'. A winning situation where the victorious wrestler did not initiate akimarite. The Japan Sumo Association recognizes fivehigi. Seekimarite for descriptions.
Hikae-zabuton (控え座布団)
Also known assekitori-zabuton. Azabuton used by wrestlers ranked in themakuuchi division in the wait of their turns to step onto the ring. It is a large sizedzabuton, filled with thicker cotton batting. The wrestler's ring name is embroidered on the center of thezabuton and it is often used as a gift given by patrons.
Hikiwake (引分)
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 ayasumi (休み).[6] In modern sumo, this situation is resolved with a break and subsequent restart or rematch.[1] Though common in early sumo,hikiwake are very rare in the modern age and there has not been one since 1974.[7] Recorded with a white triangle.
Hinoshita Kaisan (日下開山)
A nickname used to describe the firstyokozuna,Akashi Shiganosuke. The term is sometimes used in reference toyokozuna in general, and appears stamped only on thetegata ofyokozuna to signify their rank.
A group of relatedstables. 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. Allichimon have at least one representative on the Sumo Association board of directors. In the past,ichimon were more established cooperative entities and until 1965, wrestlers from the sameichimon did not fight each other in tournament competition.
Iitoko uru (いいとこ売る)
'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.
Inashi (往なし)
To sidestep or dodge. As opposed to when done at thetachiai when it is referred to as ahenka,inashi is done after the initialtachi-ai to catch the opponent off guard and force him out in another direction.
Intai (引退)
'Retirement'; the decision of an activesumo wrestler to quit competing definitively. The most famous retirees becomesTV personalities or trainers while lower rankers usually find jobs as cooks inchankonabe restaurant. The most accomplishedwrestlers are usually granted the right to become atoshiyori in order to train future generations of wrestlers.
Intai-zumō (引退相撲)
'Retirement sumo'. A one-day exhibition tournament held during thedanpatsu-shiki to commemorate the retirement of asalaried wrestler.
Itabanzuke (板番付)
'Board ranking'. A large wooden sumo ranking hung outside the tournament venue, usually at the basis of the drum tower. The initialbanzuke prior to eachhonbasho is written on theitabanzuke before being reduced and printed on paper as leaflets for programs.
Itamiwake (痛み分け)
A draw due to injury. A rematch (torinaoshi) has been called but one wrestler is too injured to continue; this is no longer in use and the injured wrestler forfeits instead.[1] The lastitamiwake was recorded in 1999.[8] Recorded with a white triangle.
'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. Theyobidashi ensure this is clean of any previous marks immediately prior to each bout.
Jōi-jin (上位陣)
'High rankers'. A term loosely used to describe wrestlers who would expect to face ayokozuna during a tournament. In practice this normally means anyone rankedmaegashira 4 or above.
'Tenryō', for the original salary of a professional sumo wrestler. The second-highest division of sumo wrestlers, belowmakuuchi and abovemakushita, and the lowest division where the wrestlers receive a salary and full privileges.
Literally translates as 'defending hand'. When the two wrestlers fall together, the wrestler on the lower side is referred to asshini-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 (kabai-te) prior to theshini-tai wrestler touching the ground first. Although the wrestler on top touches first, he is still declared the winner.
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 thetachi-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 poundingmochi cakes.
Kachi-koshi (勝ち越し)
More wins than losses for a wrestler in a tournament. This is eight wins for asekitori with fifteen bouts in a tournament, and four wins for lower-ranked wrestlers with seven bouts in a tournament. Gainingkachi-koshi generally results in promotion. The opposite ismake-koshi.
Kachi-nokori (勝ち残り)
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 thekachi-nokori. For thesan'yaku matches it is traditional that wrestlers stay after their matches to avoid a wrestler being withoutkachi-nokori. In the event that all thesan'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 atsukebito of a losingsan'yaku from this side who won a match during the day or who did not have a bout gives the water. For this occasion, thetsukebito are dressed inyukata with one sleeve removed (katahada). Until 1994, theyukata were worn as a loincloth as it is traditional to present the water inmawashi. If there is no winningtsukebito, or if he arrives late, theyobidashi gives the water. During the finaljūryō bout, theyobidashi often give the water, since many wrestlers wait in thehanamichi for themakuuchi ring-entering ceremony.
Kadoban (角番)
Anōzeki who has sufferedmake-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 ofkadoban ōzeki since that time.
Reading aloud of large sheets of paper, before the start of themakuuchi division bouts, in which the name of the wrestlers who faces each other on the day after are written. The reader is either thetate-gyōji or asan'yaku-gyōji who reads aloud in a melodious fashion and hands them one by one to a youngyobidashi who points them at each cardinal point.
Keiko (稽古)
Term referring to practice or training in sumo.
Keikoba (稽古場)
'Rehearsal room'. The practice area where daily training is happening in sumo stables.
Kettei-sen (決定戦)
A playoff between two or more wrestlers in a division who are tied for the lead on the last day of the tournament.
Kenshō-kin (懸賞金)
Prize money based on sponsorship of the bout, awarded to the winner upon thegyōji'sgunbai. The banners of the sponsors are paraded around thedohyō 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.
The loincloth fronted with a heavily decorated apron worn bysekitori wrestlers for thedohyō-iri. These are very expensive, and are usually paid for by the wrestler's organization of supporters or a commercial sponsor.
Winning techniques in a sumo bout, announced by the referee on declaring the winner. The Japan Sumo Association recognizes eighty-two differentkimarite.
Kimon (鬼門)
'Demon's gate'. Glass ceiling for wrestlers, synonymous with insurmountable difficulties. Named after the traditionalgeomancy 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.'
'Forbidden hand'. A foul move during a bout, which results in disqualification. Examples include punching, kicking and eye-poking. The onlykinjite likely to be seen these days (usually inadvertently) is hair-pulling.
Koenkai (後援会)
'Supporters association'. A membership-based fellowship for the purpose of supporting or endorsing a particular stable or wrestler.
Kōjō (口上)
'Speech'. A formal address in which wrestlers promoted toyokozuna orōzeki ranks makes a speech after the decision of their promotion is conveyed byelders of the Japan Sumo Association. The address usually takes place in the stable (decorated with a goldenbyōbu andkōhaku maku) in presence of theoyakata, his wife (ōkami-san), and supporters (koenkai). Formally dressed, both parties face each other kneel; bow; and make a formal speech.
Kokakuka (好角家)
A sumo connoisseur, a person who loves sumo. The term comes from the wordkakuriki (角力), another name for sumo wrestling.
'Breadwinner'. A talented wrestler who is successful and winsnumerous prizes in the process, ensuring his financial subsistence and that hisstable 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.
'Little knot'. The fourth-highest rank of sumo wrestlers, and the lowestsan'yaku rank.
Kore yori san'yaku (これより三役)
'These three bouts'.[citation needed] The final threetorikumi duringsenshūraku. The winner of the first bout wins a pair ofarrows. The winner of the penultimate bout wins the bow strings. The ultimate bout winner was awarded a bow (yumi) but since the introduction of theyumitori-shiki ceremony it is no longer the case.
Kōshō seido (公傷制度)
'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.[9]
Kuisagaru (食い下がる)
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.
Kunroku (九六)
'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 forōzeki who are then calledkunroku ōzeki.
Kuroboshi (黒星)
'Black star'. A loss in a sumo bout, recorded with a black circle.
Kyūjō (休場)
A wrestler's absence from ahonbasho, usually due to injury.
'Those ahead'.[citation needed] The fifth-highest rank of sumo wrestlers, and the lowestmakuuchi rank. This rank makes up the bulk of themakuuchi division, comprising around 30 wrestlers depending on the number insan'yaku. Only the top ranks (maegashira jō'i (前頭上位)) normally fight againstsan'yaku wrestlers. Also sometimes referred to ashiramaku (平幕), particularly when used in contrast tosan'yaku.
Maemitsu (前褌)
Front of themawashi. Often referred to as amaemitsu grip, when one has a hold of the front of themawashi.
Maesabaki (前裁き)
Preliminary actions to knock away or squeeze the hands of one's opponent, in order to achieve an advantageous position.
Maezumō (前相撲)
'Before sumo'. Unranked sumo wrestlers in their first bouts. Participation in at least onemaezumō bout is required to enter thejonokuchi division for the followinghonbasho.
Make-koshi (負け越し)
More losses than wins for a wrestler in a tournament.Make-koshi generally results in demotion, although there are special rules on demotion forōzeki. The opposite iskachi-koshi.
Maki (巻)
Long scroll prepared by thegyōji before eachmain tournament, on which is written in calligraphy the names of all the east and west wrestlers by ranks. The scroll allow theshimpan to prepare the matches. The results of each wrestler are written next to the kanji of hisshikona. Above his name are written the names of those he defeated and below those who defeated him. The kanji 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.
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.
'Below the curtain'. The third highest division of sumo wrestlers, belowjūryō and abovesandanme. Originally the division right belowmakuuchi, explaining its name, beforejūryō was split off from it to become the new second highest division.
Makushita tsukedashi (幕下付け出し)
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 themakushita division. The original system has existed since theTaishō period, and until 1966 any wrestler who was a university graduate could enter pro sumo at the bottom ofmakushita. 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 ofmakushita 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 atmakushita 15; those that won two of those titles in the same year could start atmakushita 10. (See alsosandanme tsukedashi.)
'Inside the curtain'. The top division in sumo. It is named for the curtained-off waiting area once reserved for professional wrestlers duringbasho, and comprises 42 wrestlers.
Man'in onrei (満員御礼)
'Full house'. Banners are unfurled from the ceiling when this is achieved duringhonbasho. 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%.
Matawari (股割り)
'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.
Matta (待った)
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, amatta 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 firstkanji means 'to wait', indicating that the match must wait until both wrestlers are ready.
The thick-waisted loincloth worn for sumo training and competition.Mawashi worn bysekitori wrestlers are white cotton for training and colored silk for competition; lower ranks wear dark cotton for both training and competition.
Mawashi matta (まわし待った)
'Mawashi break'. The interruption of a match at the discretion of thegyōji in order to reattach a wrestler'smawashi.
Mawashi uchiwa (回し団扇)
'Rotating fan'. An action in which agyōji who has mistakenly declared victory to the loser immediately redirects hisgunbai to the winner to cover up the misjudgment.
Me ga aku (目が明く)
'To regain sight'. A wrestler who has been on a losing streak since the first day of the tournament gets his first victory.
Mizu-iri (水入り)
Water break. When a match goes on for around four minutes, thegyōji will stop the match for a water break for the safety of the wrestlers. In the twosekitori divisions, he will then place them back in exactly the same position to resume the match, while lower division bouts are restarted from thetachi-ai.
The discussion held by theshimpan when thegyōji's decision for a bout is called into question. Technically, the term refers to the querying of the decision: the resulting discussion is akyogi. Literally means, a "talk about things".
Moro-zashi (両差し)
Deep double underarm grip which prevents the opponent from grabbing the belt.
Moshi-ai (申し合い)
Practice bouts where the winner stays on and then chooses his next opponent. He will continue to fight until he has lost.
Clapping of the hands at thetachi-ai to distract the opponent.
Nihon Sumō Kyōkai (日本相撲協会)
TheJapan Sumo Association, the governing body for professional sumo (calledōzumō (大相撲)).
Nihon Sumō Renmei (日本相撲連盟)
TheJapan Sumo Federation [ja], a public interest corporation that oversees amateur sumo (アマチュア相撲) in Japan.
Niramiai (睨み合い)
The staredown between sumo wrestlers before a match.
Nodowa (喉輪)
Thrusting at an opponent's throat.
Nokotta (残った)
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.
Nyūmaku (入幕)
'Into the curtain'. In sumo, a promotion fromjūryō tomakuuchi. Also calledshinnyūmaku (新入幕) for a wrestler newly promoted andsainyūmaku (再入幕) for a wrestler making a comeback to the top division.
Literally 'ginkgo-leaf top-knot'. This is the hair style worn in tournaments byjūryō andmakuuchi wrestlers. It is so named because the top-knot is fanned out on top of the head in a shape resembling aginkgo leaf. It is only worn during formal events such as tournaments. Otherwise even top rankers will wear their hair in achonmage style.
Okamisan (女将さん)
Stablemaster's wife. She oversees all stable's activities except coaching.[10]
There are two main types of wrestling in sumo:oshi-zumō andyotsu-zumō.Oshi-zumō literally translates as 'pushing sumo', and is more commonly referred to in English as a 'pusher' (oshi)-thruster (tsuki). One who fights in theoshi-zumō style prefers fighting apart, not grabbing the belt as inyotsu-zumō, and usually winning with tactics of pushing, thrusting, andtsuppari.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.Oshi-zumō fighters are generally thought of as simplistic, whileyotsu-zumō fighters are seen more as technicians.
Otōtodeshi (弟弟子)
A junior disciple. Young low-ranker at a sumostable.
Ottsuke (押っ付け)
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.
Oyakata (親方)
A sumo coach, almost always the owner of one of the 105 name licenses (toshiyori kabu). Also used as a suffix as a personal honorific.
Ayokozuna performing ashikoThe Prime Minister's Cup on displaySumōmoji sample depicting the termedomoji
Sagari (下がり)
The strings inserted into the front of themawashi for competition. Thesagari ofsekitori wrestlers are stiffened with a seaweed-based glue.
Sandan-gamae (三段構え)
A rare ceremony, performed by the two highest ranking wrestlers and agyōji to demonstrate the "three stages" of sumo poise, seen only on special occasions. It has been performed only 24 times since theMeiji period, most recently withHarumafuji andKakuryū in 2016 and withHakuhō andKisenosato in 2017.[11]
'Third level'. The third lowest division of sumo wrestlers, abovejonidan and belowmakushita.
Sandanme tsukedashi (三段目付け出し)
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 theNational Sports Festival Adults tournament was allowed to skip the bottom two divisions and start at the bottom of thesandanme division. In 2023 the system was changed, and those who now finish 9th through 16th in designated tournaments can start at the bottom ofsandanme, while the top eight can start at the bottom ofmakushita. Also as of 2023, high school competitors placing in the top four in designated high school events are allowed to start at the bottom ofsandanme. (See alsomakushita tsukedashi.)
'Three prizes'. Special prizes awarded tomakuuchi wrestlers for exceptional performance.
San'yaku (三役)
'Three ranks'. The "titleholder" ranks at the top of sumo. There are actually four ranks insan'yaku:yokozuna,ōzeki,sekiwake andkomusubi, since theyokozuna is historically anōzeki with a license to perform his own ring-entering ceremony. The word is occasionally used to refer only tosekiwake andkomusubi.
San'yaku soroibumi (三役揃い踏み)
Ritual preceding thekore yori san'yaku or final three bouts on the final day (senshūraku) of ahonbasho, where the six scheduled wrestlers, three from east side and three from the west side in turn performshiko simultaneously on thedohyō.
San'yo (参与)
'Consultant'. Special rank in thetoshiyori system in whichoyakata are re-hired by the association as consultants on reduced pay for five years after mandatory retirement. As of 2024[update], there are sixsan'yo in the Japan Sumo Association.
Literally 'next to the barrier'. The third-highest rank of sumo wrestlers.
Senshūraku (千秋楽)
The final day of a sumo tournament.Senshūraku literally translates as 'many years of comfort.' There are two possible explanations for the origins of this term. Ingagaku (traditional Japanese court music) the term is tied with celebratory meaning to the last song of the day. In classicnōgaku theater there is a play known asTakasago, in which the term is used in a song at the end of the play. Today the term is used inkabuki and other types of performances as well.
Sewanin (世話人)
'Assistant'. A retired wrestler (usually from themakushita 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.
Shikiri (仕切り)
'Toeing the mark'.[citation needed] 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.[12]
Shikiri-sen (仕切り線)
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 90 cm (35 in) long, 6 cm (2.4 in) wide and placed 70 cm (28 in) apart using enamel paint.[13]
Shiko (四股)
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.Shiko is also performed ritually to drive away demons before each bout and as part of theyokozuna dohyō-iri.
A wrestler's 'fighting name' or 'ring name', often a poetic expression which may contain elements specific to the wrestler'sheya. Japanese wrestlers frequently do not adopt ashikona until they reachmakushita orjūryō; 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 formerōzekiDejima and formeryokozunaWajima.
Ringside judges or umpires who may issue final rulings on any disputed decision. There are fiveshimpan for each bout, drawn from senior members of theNihon Sumō Kyōkai, and wearing traditional formal kimono.
Shimpan-iin (審判委員)
'Umpire committee'. Theshimpan as a group.
Shin-deshi (新弟子)
'New pupil'. A new recruit into sumo.
Shingitai (心技体)
'Heart, technique, and body': the three qualities of a wrestler. The most successful wrestlers will be strong in all three categories.
'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.[14]
Shinjo (新序)
A designation given to wrestlers who had performed well inmaezumō that allowed them to participate injonokuchi in the same tournament. Additionally, if they performed well at this stage, they were allowed to skip straight to thejonidan rank in the next tournament. This system is no longer used.
Shinjo shusse hirō (新序出世披露)
Occasion co-ordinated where new wrestlers who have been accepted into professional sumo are presented to audience; they wear borrowedkeshō-mawashi during this ceremony which takes place on the middle Sunday of each tournament.[15]
Shiomaki (塩撒き)
One of the many rituals preceding a sumo bout, in which the wrestlers throw handfuls of salt before entering thedohyō. According toShinto beliefs, salt possesses purifying properties; as they cast salt into the ring, the wrestlers would then be cleansing thedohyō of bad energy and possibly protecting themselves from injury. The average amount a wrestler grabs and throws is around 200 g (7.1 oz), although some wrestlers throw up to 500 g (18 oz).[16]
Shiroboshi (白星)
'White star'. A victory in a sumo bout, recorded with a white circle.
Shishō (師匠)
'Master, teacher'. Asumo elder in charge of a sumo stable.
Shitaku-beya (支度部屋)
'Preparation room'. Room in which wrestlers in the ranks ofjūryō and above wait before their matches. This is where they will place their belongings, put on their belt, and warm up for their match.
Shokkiri (初っ切り)
A comedic sumo performance, a type of match common to exhibition matches and tours, similar in concept to the basketball games of theHarlem Globetrotters; often used to demonstrate examples of illegal moves.
Shonichi (初日)
'First day'. The first day of a tournament, or the first win after a series of losses.
Shukun-shō (殊勲賞)
Outstanding performance prize. One of three special prizes awarded to wrestlers for performance in abasho.
Shusshin (出身)
'Birthplace' or 'place of origin'. Similar to the termfighting out of in sports likeboxing orMMA.Heya are restricted to having no more than one wrestler whoseshusshin is outside of Japan under normal circumstances.
Sōken (総見)
'General view'. An openmakuuchi practise session (keiko) held by the Yokozuna Deliberation Council at theRyōgoku Kokugikan. The session takes place in front of a considerable number ofoyakata 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.
Soppugata (ソップ型)
In sumo slang, a thin wrestler. Opposite ofankogata.
Literally, 'one who does sumo'.[citation needed] Sumo wrestler, but occasionally refers only tosekitori.
Suriashi (摺り足)
'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.
The two designated highest rankinggyōji, who preside over the last few bouts of a tournament day. The highest rankinggyōji takes the professional name Kimura Shōnosuke while the lower takes the name Shikimori Inosuke.
Tanimachi (タニマチ)
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.Tanimachi can sponsor wrestlers when individually or grouped together inkoenkai.
Tawara (俵)
Bales of rice straw.Tawara are half-buried in the clay of thedohyō to mark its boundaries.
Tegata (手形)
'Hand print'. A memento consisting of a wrestler's handprint in red or black ink and hisshikona written by the wrestler in calligraphy on a square paperboard. It can be an original or a copy. A copy of ategata may also be imprinted onto other memorabilia such as porcelain dishes. Onlysekitori wrestlers are allowed to make hand prints.
Tegatana (手刀)
'Knife hand'. After winning a match and accepting the prize money, the wrestler makes a ceremonial hand movement with ategatana known astegatana o kiru (手刀を切る) where he makes three cutting motions in the order of left, right, and center. It is done to show gratitude to the godsKamimusubi (left),Takamimusubi (right), andAme-no-Minakanushi (center).
Emperor's Cup, awarded to the winner of the top division tournament championship since 1925.
Tenran-zumō (天覧相撲)
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 calledkihin-seki (貴賓席), which are only used by the royal family, by the Chairman of theSumo Association who sits behind them and explains the happenings.
Teppō (鉄炮)
'Gun' or 'Cannon'. Wooden pole used for slapping andTachi-ai training, intended to strengthen the wrestlers' wrists, arms and shoulders.
Hairdressers employed by theSumo Association to style the hair of wrestlers and to fashion the elaborateōichomage ofsekitori for official tournaments and public engagements.
Tomoesen (巴戦)
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 thedohyō 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.
Torikumi (取組)
A bout during a tournament. May also refer to a day's bout schedule.
Torinaoshi (取り直し)
A rematch. When the result of a bout is too close to call even after theshimpan hold amono-ii, they may call for the bout to be re-fought from thetachi-ai.
Toriteki (取的)
Opposite ofsekitori. Refers to every wrestlers ranked frommakushita and below, it often refers only to thejonidan andjonokuchi.
'Elder share'. A named coaching licence of which there are 105, which a recently retiredsekitori used to buy from its previous owner or inherit from his father or father-in-law. Today, the wrestlers submit their wish to receive akabu to the Association; which examines their candidacy and distributes the titles.
Tsukebito (付け人)
Arikishi in the lower divisions who serves as a personal attendant to asekitori-ranked wrestler.
Tsuna (綱)
The heavy rope worn by theyokozuna from which that rank takes its name. It weighs about 15 kg (33 lb), and is much thicker in front than where it is tied in back. Fiveshide, zig-zag paper strips symbolizing lightning, hang from the front. It strongly resembles theshimenawa used to mark sacred areas inShinto.
Tsunatori (綱取り)
Anōzeki in a position of potential promotion to the supreme rank ofyokozuna. Generally, promotion requires two consecutive championships or a similar performance.
Tsunauchi (綱打ち)
A ceremony in which atsuna of a current or formeryokozuna is created by other sumo wrestlers and presented.
Tsuppari (突っ張り)
To rapidly deliverharite (張り手) or 'open hand strikes' to the opponent. This technique is frequently employed byoshi-zumō wrestlers.
Tsuriyane (吊り屋根)
'Suspended roof'. A 6.5-tonne (6.4-long-ton; 7.2-short-ton) structure held in place by 2.2 cm (0.87 in) thick wires that can bear almost five times as much weight. It is modeled after theshinmei-zukuri architectural style typical of Shinto shrines. Four differently-colored tassels (fusa) are hung from it, representing thefour spirits and replace the previous columns that used to maintain the roof.
'Youth leader'. A retired wrestler (usually a formerjūryō ormaegashira) who is a functionary of the Sumo Association, working with new recruits at his former stable or associatedichimon, and who also arrangesmaezumō matches.
Waki ga amai (脇が甘い)
'Soft side'. A poor defense to prevent one's opponent from getting an underarm grip.
Waki ga katai (脇が堅い)
'Hard side'. Antonym ofwaki ga amai. A good defense in which the elbow is attached to the flank to prevent an opponent's move.
Wanpaku-zumo (腕白相撲)
'Naughty sumo'.Wanpaku is a Japanese term for a child, especially a boy, who does not obey and goes on a rampage.Wanpaku-zumo is sumo for elementary school-aged children. The Wanpaku Sumo National Championship is organized by JCI Tokyo and theJapan Sumo Federation. Its national final is held at theRyōgoku Kokugikan and the winner is crowned Elementary schoolyokozuna.
'Put-up job' or 'fixed game', referring to a bout with a predetermined outcome.
Yobiage (呼び上げ)
The formal call made by theyobidashi in the ring. Depending on their rank, thesekitori-ranked wrestlers called may receive twoyobiage to mark their status.
Usher or announcer. General assistants at tournaments. They call the wrestlers to thedohyō before their bouts, build thedohyō prior to a tournament and maintain it between bouts, display the advertising banners before sponsored bouts, maintain the supply of ceremonial salt andchikara-mizu, and any other needed odd jobs.
'Horizontal rope'. The top rank in sumo, usually translated 'Grand Champion'. The name comes from the rope ayokozuna wears for thedohyō-iri. Seetsuna.
Yokozuna-kai (横綱会)
An event held every year after the Kyūshū tournament, where former and currentyokozuna 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 inFukuoka-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.
Yokozuna Shingi Kai (横綱審議会) orYokozuna Shingi Iinkai (横綱審議委員会)
'Yokozuna Deliberation Council'. A body formed in 1950 whose 15 members are drawn from outside the Japan Sumo Association, that meets following eachhonbasho to consider candidates for promotion toyokozuna. A recommendation is passed back to the Sumo Association who have the final say. It also offers opinions on the performance of currentyokozuna.[17]
Yosedaiko (寄せ太鼓)
'Gather around drum'. Drums sounded in the morning of a tournament to draw the crowds. Usually performed from the tower in front of theRyōgoku Kokugikan, the drummers perform in front of the entrance duringjungyo.
Yotsumi (四つ身)
A cross-grips situation in which each wrestler has an underarm grip on his opponent.
Yotsu-zumō (四つ相撲)
There are two main types of wrestling in sumo:oshi-zumō andyotsu-zumō.Yotsu-zumō is where both wrestlers grasp the other's belt with both hands, hence the literal translation: 'four sumo' or 'four hands on themawashi sumo'. There are a few sub-types ofyotsu-zumō.Migi-yotsu (右四つ) is when one hassashite (差して) on the right (migi), meaning that one has his right hand under his opponent's left arm and grasping hismawashi.Hidari-yotsu is the opposite where one's left (hidari) hand is inside the opponent's right arm. Ayotsu-zumō fighter will typically prefer left or right and is referred to asmigi-yotsu orhidari-yotsu fighter. If one has no preference, they are referred to asnamakura-yotsu (鈍ら四つ), wherenamakura literally translates as 'lazy' or 'cowardly', suggesting that having no preference is seen in a negative light. There is one other finalyotsu grip known asmoro-zashi (両差し), literally 'sashite on both sides', where both hands are inside and is a very strong grip. The only real defense for amoro-zashi grip is thekimedashi (極めだし) technique where the defending wrestler wraps both of his arms over themoro-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.Kime-dashi is also known askannuki (閂) (usually written in hiragana asかんぬき), and means 'to bolt' or 'to bar'. When two wrestlers who both fight in theyotsu-zumō style oppose each other and favor the same style grip, eithermigi-yotsu orhidari-yotsu, then they will fit together nicely in what is calledai-yotsu (相四つ), or togetheryotsu. If however they are of opposite preferences, then it is known askenka-yotsu (喧嘩四つ), literally fightingyotsu. In this situation, whoever gets his preferred grip is usually the victor.
Yumitori-shiki (弓取式)
The bow-twirling ceremony performed at the end of eachhonbasho day by a designated wrestler, theyumitori, who is usually from themakushita division, and is usually a member of ayokozuna's stable.
Yurufun (ゆるふん)
A loosely tightenedmawashi. Can be used on purpose to incapacitate wrestlers specializing inyotsu-zumō.Fun is an abbreviation offundoshi.
Loose and disheveled hair. Term for style of hair before wrestler's hair is long enough to put inchonmage 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 achonmage. In succession a wrestler starts with thezanbara style, then moves to thechonmage style, and then finally theōichōmage style, which can only be worn by wrestlers in the top two divisions.
Zenshō (全勝)
Aperfect tournament where, depending on the division, the wrestler finishes 15–0 or 7–0 in the tournament.
