massage therapy

noun

: the manipulation of the muscles and other soft tissues of the body (as by stroking, kneading, or rubbing with one or both hands or an instrument) by a massage therapist for therapeutic purposes (as to relieve pain, promote healing, or improve physical functioning)
Last year, 42 percent of American adults used some type of alternative care—herbal therapy, chiropractic, acupuncture, massage therapy or any of a number of other methods not taught in medical school, according to a nationwide telephone survey …Jane E. Brody

Examples of massage therapy in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web The massage gun uses Theragun's gentle level of percussive massage therapy – perfect for those who prefer a milder, soothing massage that still provides relief. Nora Colomer, Fox News, 12 Apr. 2024 On its website, the company, which also has a Manhattan office, boasts of luxe perks like massage therapy rooms and bonus trips. Emma Goldberg, New York Times, 10 Feb. 2024 And the fascination for the classical world ripples through society in unexpected ways: There are now museums in subway stations, ancient aqueducts are being repurposed, and Athenians are drawing on the past for inspiration in art, gastronomy, even massage therapy. Tony Perrottet, Smithsonian Magazine, 27 Mar. 2024 Physical Therapy: Techniques such as massage therapy, hydrotherapy (water exercises), heat/cold therapy, and gentle stretching can help improve joint mobility and reduce pain. Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 10 Nov. 2023 Players had their legs in massage therapy boots at 1 a.m. after the semifinal. Thuc Nhi Nguyen, Los Angeles Times, 12 Mar. 2024 If your lovable bundle of joy is a senior, massage therapy can be included. Matt Keenan, Kansas City Star, 30 Jan. 2024 Explore services such as massage therapy and nail or hair spas, which not only offer physical benefits but also provide opportunities for nurturing touch and relaxation. Mark Travers, Forbes, 18 Feb. 2024 Plus, this triple-purpose formula is rich in sesame seed oil that can be used in the bath or for massage therapy. Anamaria Glavan, Allure, 19 Dec. 2023

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

Word History

First Known Use

1888, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of massage therapy was in 1888

Dictionary Entries Near massage therapy

Cite this Entry

“Massage therapy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/massage%20therapy. Accessed 25 Apr. 2024.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!