urtication

American  

[ur-ti-key-shuhn] / ˌɜr tɪˈkeɪ ʃən /

noun

Pathology.

1. the development or eruption of urticaria.

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urtication British  

/ ˌɜːtɪˈkeɪʃən /

noun

1. a burning or itching sensation

2. another name for urticaria

3. a former method of producing counterirritation of the skin by beating the area with nettles

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Etymology

Origin of urtication

1645–55; < Medieval Latin urtīcātiōn- (stem of urtīcātiō ) a stinging, equivalent to urtīcāt ( us ) ( see urticate) + -iōn- -ion

Example Sentences

No doubt, in many instances, its action as a revulsive may be beneficial; and urtication, or the stinging with nettles, has not unfrequently been prescribed with advantage.

From Curiosities of Medical Experience by Millingen, J. G. (John Gideon)

In a medical point of view, urtication, or stinging with nettles, is a practice not sufficiently appreciated.

From Curiosities of Medical Experience by Millingen, J. G. (John Gideon)

The employment of urtication is of great antiquity, for Celsus as well as Aretæus mentions the use of it, it being in those times, a popular remedy.

From Aphrodisiacs and Anti-aphrodisiacs: Three Essays on the Powers of Reproduction by Davenport, John

The urtication of this shame made plays And sonnets, as you'll find behind all deeds That mount to greatness, anger, hate, disgust, But, better, love.

From Toward the Gulf by Masters, Edgar Lee

This process has been found effectual in restoring heat to the lower extremities, and a case of obstinate lethargy was cured by Corvisart by a repeated urtication of the whole body.

From Aphrodisiacs and Anti-aphrodisiacs: Three Essays on the Powers of Reproduction by Davenport, John