Showing results for "cupping"

• present participle of cup.

cupping

American  

[kuhp-ing] / ˈkʌp ɪŋ /

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.

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cupping British  

/ ˈkʌpɪŋ /

noun

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

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Etymology

Origin of cupping

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

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

cupping

Often, like in my treatment in Singapore, cupping is paired with gua sha, creating a push and pull on the skin.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 21, 2026

She scraped my skin with firm, painful strokes, and then moved on to cupping, placing glass suction cups across my back and shoulders.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 21, 2026

Kayleigh's tried cocktails of different medications, putting her feet in hot water, a flannel at the back of the head, acupuncture, cupping - but they've had little effect.

From BBC ● May 31, 2025

In addition to his usual routine, he’s tried cryotherapy, infrared therapy, massages with cupping — anything to keep inflammation down and ward away the nagging injuries that followed him over three years at Mississippi State.

From Los Angeles Times ● Nov. 21, 2024

“Yoo-hoo,” the children called, cupping their hands to their mouths.

From "The Long-Lost Home" by Maryrose Wood

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