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Definition of acupuncture

acupuncture

/ˈæk.juːˌpʌŋk.tʃɚ/
ac · u · punc · ture
Adjective:acupunctural
•
Past Simple:acupunctured
•
Past Participle:acupunctured
•
Present Participle:acupuncturing
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acupuncture Lexical Profile

acupuncture Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A system of complementary medicine originating in ancient China in which fine needles are inserted into the skin at specific anatomical points to alleviate pain and treat various physical and mental conditions.

Example

"After months of lower back pain, she decided to try acupuncture alongside her physical therapy."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for acupuncture

• verb

1

To treat a patient or a part of the body using the technique of acupuncture.

Example

"The practitioner carefully acupunctured the muscles around her shoulder to relieve the tension."

• Nearby Words

acuity
acumen
acupressure
acupuncture
acupuncturist
acute
acutely

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the late 17th century from Modern Latin 'acupunctura', combining the Latin 'acus' (needle) and 'punctura' (a pricking), introduced to Europe by Dutch physician Willem ten Rhijne after observing traditional medical practices in Japan.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Acupuncture. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/acupuncture
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