acupressure

noun

acu·pres·sure ˈa-kyə-ˌpre-shər

ˈa-kə-

: the application of pressure (as with the thumbs or fingertips) to the same discrete points on the body stimulated in acupuncture that is used for its therapeutic effects (such as the relief of tension or pain) compare shiatsu

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web There also are physical therapies — massage, heat treatments, acupuncture, acupressure, yoga, meditation and aqua therapy. —

San Diego Union-Tribune, 14 Jan. 2023 Like acupuncture without the needles, proponents of acupressure claim the practice can stimulate nerves and ease muscle tension, improve circulation and increase energy. —

Cailey Lindberg, Good Housekeeping, 6 Dec. 2022 Best Recovery Picks for Runners Give the gift of deeper recovery — for body and mind — this year with an acupressure mat from Shakti. —

Outside Online, 23 Nov. 2022 Some research suggests that acupressure may also be helpful in promoting sleep. —

Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 12 Oct. 2022 From self-care tools like acupressure pillows to noise-cancelling earbuds, there's no shortage of options for any personality type. —

Amber Joglar, Popular Mechanics, 14 Dec. 2022 An acupressure mat is every wellness lover's most convenient way to reduce muscle tension and back pain by simply laying on the mat daily for 10-30 minutes. —

Mark Stock, Men's Health, 6 Dec. 2022 First trimester nausea is one of the worst pregnancy symptoms, and these acupressure nausea bracelets may help her. —

Cailey Lindberg, Good Housekeeping, 17 Nov. 2022 This eco-friendly mat from Bed of Nails features over 8,000 acupressure point nodes designed to increase circulation and release tension and stress knots. —

Noma Nazish, Forbes, 26 Apr. 2022 See More

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'acupressure.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Word History

Etymology

acu- (in acupuncture) + pressure entry 1

First Known Use

1972, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of acupressure was in 1972

See more words from the same year

Cite this Entry

Style

“Acupressure.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/acupressure. Accessed 25 Mar. 2023.

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Medical Definition

acupressure

noun

acu·pres·sure ˈak-(y)ə-ˌpresh-ər

: the application of pressure (as with the thumbs or fingertips) to the same discrete points on the body stimulated in acupuncture that is used for its therapeutic effects (as the relief of tension or pain) see shiatsu

acupressurist

-ˌpresh-ə-rəst

noun