Langimage
English

acupuncture

|ac-u-punc-ture|

B2

🇺🇸

/ˈæk.jəˌpʌŋk.tʃər/

🇬🇧

/ˈæk.jʊˌpʌŋk.tʃər/

needle therapy

Etymology
Etymology Information

'acupuncture' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'acus,' meaning 'needle,' and 'punctura,' meaning 'pricking.'

Historical Evolution

'acus' and 'punctura' combined to form the French word 'acupuncture,' which was adopted into English in the 17th century.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'needle pricking,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a therapeutic practice involving needles.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a traditional Chinese medical practice involving the insertion of fine needles into specific points on the body to relieve pain or treat various health conditions.

Acupuncture is often used to alleviate chronic pain.

Synonyms

Last updated: 2025/05/02 06:21