massage

1 of 2

noun

mas·​sage mə-ˈsäzh  -ˈsäj 

: manipulation of tissues (as by rubbing, kneading, or tapping) with the hand or an instrument for relaxation or therapeutic purposes

gave him a neck massage

massage

2 of 2

verb

massaged; massaging

transitive verb

1

: to subject to massage

2

a

: to treat flatteringly : blandish

b

: manipulate, doctor

massaged the data to help his cause

massager noun

Synonyms

Verb

• adulate
• belaud
• blarney
• butter up
• flatter
• hero-worship
• honey
• overpraise
• puff
• soft-soap
• stroke

Examples of massage in a Sentence

Noun

She gave him a neck massage.

using massage to help relax

Verb

She massaged her leg until the numbness was gone.

a candidate who knows that you have to massage the voters if you want to get elected

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

In the mornings, there are complimentary yoga sessions or private lessons in the sunlit Yoga Loft; massages are also available in one’s room. —Laurie Werner, Forbes, 22 Oct. 2024

The Disney Adventure will also feature a spa with private treatment rooms and a range of services, including acupuncture, facials, and massages. —Carly Caramanna, Travel + Leisure, 21 Oct. 2024

Verb

Sturdivant-Drew recommends massaging Jamaican Black Castor Oil into the area to promote healthy hair growth and decrease any itching that may occur. —Jessica Fields, Essence, 17 Oct. 2024

Gently massage it into your face after cleansing, and enjoy the smoothness that follows. —Annie Blackman, Allure, 9 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Noun and Verb

French, from masser to massage, from Arabic massa to stroke

First Known Use

Noun

circa 1860, in the meaning defined above

Verb

1887, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing massage

• massage parlor
• massage someone's ego
• massage therapist
• massage therapy
• Swedish massage

Kids Definition

massage

1 of 2 noun

mas·​sage mə-ˈsäzh  -ˈsäj 

: treatment (as of the body) by rubbing, stroking, kneading, or tapping

massage

2 of 2 verb

massaged; massaging

: to give massage to

Medical Definition

massage

1 of 2 noun

mas·​sage mə-ˈsäzh  -ˈsäj 

: manipulation of tissues (as by rubbing, stroking, kneading, or tapping) with the hand or an instrument especially for therapeutic purposes

massage

2 of 2 transitive verb

massaged; massaging

: to treat by means of massage