ninja
Definition
- Noun:
- A class of 14th-century Japanese agents: Refers to a historical class of covert agents in feudal Japan, trained in specialized martial arts (ninjutsu) and employed for espionage, sabotage, and assassinations.
- A member of this class: An individual who is part of or trained in the traditions of this covert class, skilled in stealth, infiltration, and unconventional warfare.
- A person skilled in ninjutsu: In a modern or broader sense, a person highly proficient in the martial arts and techniques historically associated with ninja.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- The feudal lord hired a ninja to gather intelligence on his rival.
- In the movie, the ninja moved silently across the rooftops.
- She studies ancient texts to understand the philosophy of the historical ninja.
Advanced Usage
- Cultural Archetype: In modern popular culture, "ninja" often refers to the archetype of a stealthy, black-clad warrior, which may exaggerate or fictionalize historical attributes.
- The video game features a ninja character who can throw shuriken.
- Metaphorical Use: Can describe a person who moves or acts with great stealth, skill, or secrecy in a non-literal context.
- He was a budget ninja, finding hidden savings everywhere.
Variants and Related Words
- Ninjutsu (noun): The martial art, strategies, and techniques associated with and used by ninja.
- He has a black belt in ninjutsu.
- Shinobi (noun): The Japanese term from which "ninja" is derived, often used interchangeably in historical contexts.
Synonyms
- Covert agent: A person engaged in clandestine activities.
- Espionage agent: A spy.
- Saboteur: A person who engages in sabotage.
Related Phrases
- Ninja star: A common informal term for a (a throwing star).
- The collectible set included several replica ninja stars.
- Ninja-like (adjective): Having the qualities of a ninja, such as stealth or agility.
- Her ninja-like reflexes helped her catch the falling glass.
Related Idioms
- Like a ninja: To do something with extreme stealth, quiet, or unnoticed efficiency.
- He left the meeting like a ninja—no one even saw him go.
Noun
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a class of 14th century Japanese who were trained in martial arts and were hired for espionage and assassinations
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a member of the ninja who were trained in martial arts and hired for espionage or sabotage or assassinations; a person skilled in ninjutsu
