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. )

Example Sentences

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

And that alone is worth making like Lee and cupping my own hands around my mouth for an enthusiastic yell.

From Los Angeles Times • May 23, 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

Since China's so-called Peace Ark arrived last week, more than 2,000 South Africans have been treated on board - ranging from maternity check-ups and cataract surgeries to cupping therapy.

From BBC • Aug. 28, 2024

Tommy refused to be snubbed and, cupping his ear to the carton, shouted, “What’s that? No kidding! You’re crazy about me. Inside that answer machine all those brainy cells are rooting for me to win.”

From "In the Year of the Boar and Jackie Robinson" by Bette Bao Lord