urticate

[ ur-ti-keyt ]

verb (used with object)

, ur·ti·cat·ed, ur·ti·cat·ing.

1. to sting with or as if with nettles.
2. to whip with or as if with nettles, especially so as to produce a stinging sensation; flog; lash.

verb (used without object)

, ur·ti·cat·ed, ur·ti·cat·ing.

1. to sting in the manner of a nettle.

urticate

/ ˈɜːtɪˌkeɪt /

adjective

1. Alsourticantˈɜːtɪkənt characterized by the presence of weals

verb

1. to perform urtication

Word History and Origins

Origin of urticate¹

1835–45; < Medieval Latin urtīcātus (past participle of urtīcāre to sting), equivalent to Latin urtīc ( a ) nettle + -ātus -ate ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of urticate¹

C19: from Medieval Latin urtīcāre to sting, from Latin urtīca a nettle

Example Sentences

“The urticating hairs are all that’s needed for it to defend itself.”

From National Geographic

Scientists had previously identified six types of urticating hairs on tarantulas.

From New York Times

It’s the first species known to use these so-called urticating hairs in a direct attack, says Perez Miles.

From National Geographic

Part of their fuzz is called “urticating hairs” because they can cause hives.

From Washington Times

It turns out that some species of tarantula have a defensive weapon called “urticating hairs” that they can deploy when threatened.

From New York Times