massage

mas-sage · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    (noun) The rubbing and kneading of muscles and joints to relieve tension or pain.

  2. 2.

    (verb) To rub and knead the muscles and joints of someone's body.

  3. 3.

    (verb, figurative) To manipulate data, figures, or information in a misleading way.

Forms

plural: massages

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    massage parlor — An establishment offering massages (sometimes a euphemism for a brothel)
  • •
    massage therapist — A professional who provides therapeutic massage
  • •
    massage someone's ego — To flatter someone

Related words

See also: kneading, relaxation, spa, therapy
Synonyms: kneading, manipulation, rub

Etymology

From French massage ("friction, kneading"), from masser ("to massage"), possibly from Portuguese amassar ("to knead") or Arabic massa ("to touch, feel").