cupping

[ kuhp-ing ]

noun

1. the process of drawing blood from the body by scarification and the application of a cupping glass, or by the application of a cupping glass without scarification, as for relieving internal congestion or for loosening and stimulating the muscles.

cupping

/ ˈkʌpɪŋ /

noun

1. archaic.
   med the process of applying a cupping glass to the skin

Word History and Origins

Origin of cupping¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; cup ( def ) + -ing ¹( def )

Example Sentences

One form of cupping – wet cupping – involves piercing the skin to bleed the area and remove stagnant blood and toxins.

From Quartz

Those blemishes were the work of cupping, an alternative therapy in which small glass cups are placed on the skin at sites of injury or soreness, and used to create suction that stimulates “energy flow.”

From Quartz

Photographed by Steven Meisel, the shoot features Bündchen in the throes of a blood facial and butt-cupping therapy.

From The Daily Beast

She told me this and then leaned forward, cupping her chin in her hands, and went quiet again.

From Project Gutenberg

Its precipitation is when it is turned inside out like a purse, and hangs out between the thighs, like a cupping glass.

From Project Gutenberg

Her legs must be put out quite straight and laid together, and apply six cupping glasses to her breast and navel.

From Project Gutenberg

Apply cupping glasses to the stomach and also to the navel, especially if the swelling be flatulent.

From Project Gutenberg

Apply cupping glasses to the shoulders and ligatures to the arms, and if this be not effective, open the liver vein in the arm.

From Project Gutenberg