acupuncturist

American  

[ak-yoo-puhngk-cher-ist] / ˈæk yʊˌpʌŋk tʃər ɪst /

noun

1. a person, as a physician, chiropractor, or layperson, who practices acupuncture.

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Etymology

Origin of acupuncturist

First recorded in 1950–55; acupuncture + -ist

Explanation

An acupuncturist is an expert who treats health conditions by gently inserting tiny needles into a patient's skin. Sometimes people seek help from an acupuncturist in addition to medical treatment. The idea of visiting a provider with puncture in their title may understandably strike you as terrifying! But trained acupuncturists use needles that are so small that they don't hurt at all. And while science hasn't proven that this kind of treatment works to cure diseases or ease pain, many people report finding relief from various conditions after working with an acupuncturist.

Example Sentences

She took him to an acupuncturist and said Murphy regained both his mobility and vitality with weekly visits.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 17, 2026

She began to re-evaluate her lifestyle and after an acupuncturist suggested she shake up her diet, it dawned on Vicky she was eating next to no fibre.

From BBC • Jan. 16, 2026

Luther works from a serene room she rents from an acupuncturist in downtown Pasadena, with views of the nearby mountains.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 8, 2025

He has cut out caffeine and alcohol, regularly sees an acupuncturist and quit smoking a year ago while on his “Five Easy Hot Dogs” road trip.

From Seattle Times • May 8, 2023

“Would you mind going to the acupuncturist on Tuesday instead of Wednesday? Since Wednesday’s the day before Thanksgiving, Faith is switching her schedule.”

From "A Mango-Shaped Space" by Wendy Mass