Definition of KUNG FU (original) (raw)
: any of various Chinese martial arts and related disciplines that are practiced especially for self-defense, exercise, and spiritual growth
Examples of kung fu in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web Fist of the Condor has the immortal soul of both classic kung fu films and westerns, brought to life in a lean, muscular DIY indie-action movie frame fortified by rich elements unique to Chile. —
Jordan Crucchiola, Vulture, 4 Mar. 2024 Latino youths added a heightened sense of gymnastic movements to the art form, and over time the influence of kung fu movies with swipes and arm movements became a part of it, Mr. Holman says. —Ira Porter, The Christian Science Monitor, 8 Aug. 2024 Evelyn soon has to jump between universes and inhabit infinite versions of herself, including a kung fu master and a world-famous movie star, to prevent a parallel version of her daughter from destroying the multiverse. —Janey Tracey, EW.com, 23 May 2024 In addition to being a send up of and Valentine to the kung fu movies Chow grew up loving, Hustle takes inspiration from wuxia films and cartoons. —Vikram Murthi, Vulture, 4 Mar. 2024 [See all Example Sentences for _kung fu_ 
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These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'kung fu.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Word History
Etymology
Chinese (Beijing) gōngfu skill, art
First Known Use
1870, in the meaning defined above
Time Traveler
The first known use of kung fu was in 1870
Dictionary Entries Near kung fu
Cite this Entry
“Kung fu.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/kung%20fu. Accessed 30 Sep. 2024.
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Last Updated: 19 Sep 2024 - Updated example sentences
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