IPA: /ˈsɛnseɪ/
KK: /sɛnˈseɪ/
A teacher or instructor, especially in martial arts like judo or karate, who guides and mentors students.
The sensei taught us the importance of discipline and respect in martial arts.
**Sensei** → The word 'sensei' originates from Japanese (先生), where 'sen' (先) means 'before' or 'previous' and 'sei' (生) means 'born' or 'life'. Thus, 'sensei' refers to someone who is born before or has more experience, typically a teacher or master in a particular field.
Think of someone who has 'lived' ('sei') longer or has more experience ('sen') — that's why a sensei is a teacher or master.