Kendo is a martial art that originated in Japan and is known for its use of bamboo swords and protective gear. There are several synonyms for the word "kendo," including "kenjutsu," which translates to "sword art" in English. Other similar terms include "iaido," which is a Japanese martial art that specializes in sword drawing techniques, and "battōjutsu," which focuses on the art of drawing the sword quickly and efficiently. Another term is "budo," which is a broader term used to describe Japanese martial arts as a whole. These words all share a common interest in the art of sword fighting and are closely related to kendo.