What Does Obi Mean?
Obi
o·bi
\ˈō-bē\
noun
Definition: An obi is part of a Japanese martial arts exercise outfit and is basically a belt made from thick cotton. In karate, as in many martial arts, the obi signifies a person’s skill level. Typically, they will wear a white obi if they are a beginner while a black obi wearer is deemed to have significant skill. Increased ranks can be earned through practice where the improved abilities are demonstrated.