Monk
A monk is a member of a monastic order. In Europe this usually refers to robe-clad monastery-dwelling catholic priest devoted to a life of solitude and prayer (depending on the order, really).
In gaming, the term "Monk" usually refers to the Asian version of a monastery dweller, whereas the medieval European monk idea is more in line with the Cleric class. This is thanks to D&D, which introduced the Monk class as a martial arts expert, much in line with kung-fu movies where people dance on bamboo leaves while beating each other up with super-fast punches and kicks.
However, even the western monk has some things in common with the martial-artist stereotype, as they were often portrayed as burly men, like Robin Hood's companion Friar Tuck.
With the proper feats and items, you can turn any Monk into a veritable machine of death, destruction, and holy Jesus fucking Christ fists. Hint: The tripping line of feats + spiked chain.
But you're better off using a Swordsage, in every way.