capoeira

/ˌkæpuˈɛərə/

Capoeira is an acrobatic Brazilian martial art. The rocking movements and handstands of capoeira distinguish it from most other martial art forms.

Black Brazilians have practiced this traditional form of self defense since at least the 18th century. Capoeira was created by enslaved Africans and became more widely popular in Brazil after their emancipation in 1888. The combination of fierce fighting, dance-like movements, and acrobatics caught on worldwide — some people even credit capoeira with being an influence on break dancing. The Tupi roots of capoeira are ka'a, "forest," and paũ, "round," or area of low vegetation where enslaved Brazilians would hide.

Definitions of capoeira

1. noun

   a physical discipline that combines martial art and dance, originating among African slaves in Brazil