shiatsu

noun

shi·​at·​su shē-ˈät-(ˌ)sü How to pronounce shiatsu (audio)
variants or less commonly shiatzu
often capitalized
: acupressure
especially : a form of acupressure that originated in Japan

Examples of shiatsu in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web This shiatsu massager has three types of motion: kneading, rolling, and pulsing. Madison Yauger, Peoplemag, 8 Feb. 2024 There’s also a vibration setting for easy relaxation and a shiatsu option for those who like more of a kneading massage. Madison Yauger, Peoplemag, 12 Dec. 2023 Boasting over 16,000 five-star ratings on Amazon, this relaxing shiatsu massager is currently on sale for 37% off. Lauren Levy, Parents, 6 Dec. 2023 Four shiatsu massage nodes dig deep into muscles, helping work out those painful knots and kinks. Rebecca Martinson, Rolling Stone, 10 Nov. 2023 The independent foot chambers use shiatsu massage techniques while air pressure applies on all parts of the feet. Amanda Ogle, Southern Living, 16 Oct. 2023 This new, exclusive 60- or 90-minute experience brings together the art of massage (inspired by the shiatsu method) and hair care from the brand’s Hair Rituel line of products. Jamie Wilson, Harper's BAZAAR, 24 July 2023 There are rolling, compression, vibrating, and shiatsu massage modes, which work to soothe aches along the bottom and sides of your feet, along with five adjustable air pressure settings to help stimulate blood flow. Cai Cramer, Peoplemag, 30 May 2023 The Swedish massage or shiatsu massage? Xabier Vicuña, Forbes, 7 June 2021

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'shiatsu.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

short for Japanese shiatsu-ryōhō, from shi- finger + -atsu pressure + ryōhō treatment

First Known Use

1967, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of shiatsu was in 1967

Dictionary Entries Near shiatsu

Cite this Entry

“Shiatsu.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/shiatsu. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Medical Definition

shiatsu

noun
shi·​at·​su
variants also shiatzu
often capitalized
: acupressure especially of a form that originated in Japan
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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