acupressure

American  

[ak-yoo-presh-er] / ˈæk yʊˌprɛʃ ər /

noun

1. a type of massage in which finger pressure on the specific bodily sites described in acupuncture therapy is used to promote healing, alleviate fatigue, etc.

2. Medicine/Medical. a procedure for stopping blood flow from an injured blood vessel.

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acupressure British  

/ ˈækjʊˌprɛʃə /

noun

1. another name for shiatsu

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Etymology

Origin of acupressure

First recorded in 1855–60; acu(puncture) + pressure

Example Sentences

I would rather do a Thai-style massage where you have your clothes on or Chinese acupressure.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 3, 2025

We did some research on acupressure and discovered that it can be a safe and effective strategy for improving sleep.

From Seattle Times • Jun. 28, 2023

The guidelines do not recommend offering women aromatherapy, yoga or acupressure for pain relief but say that if a woman wants to use any of these techniques her choice should be supported.

From BBC • Apr. 25, 2023

Ms. Lamb recommends the Watsu hydrotherapy 60-minute massage — one of the resort’s most frequently booked treatments — which combines massage, acupressure, stretching and rocking in the spa’s thermal pool.

From New York Times • Mar. 7, 2023

She received an acupressure massage and reflexology treatments during the day, plus a lot of tender loving care.

From How and When to Be Your Own Doctor by Solomon, Steve