Itch Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
itch
[ษชtส ]
Definitions
feeling
An uncomfortable sensation on the skin that causes a desire to scratch. It is often caused by an allergic reaction, insect bite, or dry skin.
Synonyms
pruritus, scratchiness, tingle.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| itch |
This is the general term used to describe the uncomfortable sensation on the skin that makes you want to scratch. It's appropriate for everyday conversations and common situations.
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| pruritus |
This term is more medical and formal, often used by healthcare professionals to describe persistent itching. It's appropriate for medical discussions or formal writing.
|
| tingle |
This describes a light pricking or stinging feeling rather than a true itch. It's often associated with situations like cold sensations or mild irritation.
|
| scratchiness |
This term is often used to describe a mild, rough sensation on the skin or throat rather than intense itching. It suggests discomfort rather than a strong urge to scratch.
|
Examples of usage
- The mosquito bite left a persistent itch on my arm.
- I have an itch on my back that I can't reach.
action
To have or experience an itchy feeling on the skin, making one want to scratch. It can also refer to a strong desire or impulse to do something.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| itch |
Used when describing a sensation on the skin that makes you want to scratch.
|
| scratch |
Used when describing the act of reducing an itchy sensation by rubbing or scraping with nails or a sharp object.
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| tingle |
Used to describe a slightly stinging or prickling sensation, often lightly and covering a small area.
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| irritate |
Used to describe something that causes discomfort or mild inflammation, often applies to skin or emotions.
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Examples of usage
- The wool sweater itches my skin.
- I itch to travel and explore new places.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- Itching is caused by the activation of nerve endings in your skin, often triggered by irritation or allergies.
- The body releases a chemical called histamine when you scratch an itch, which can make it feel even itchier temporarily.
Psychology
- Itching can also be psychological; sometimes people feel the urge to scratch even when thereโs no visible cause.
- In studies, stress levels can influence how sensitive a person feels toward itching, indicating a mental connection.
Health
- Chronic itching can be a sign of underlying conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or liver disease, highlighting the importance of skin health.
- Certain medications like those for pain relief can also have itching as a side effect.
Cultural References
- In literature, the notion of an 'itch' often represents an unquenchable desire or longing, metaphorically speaking.
- Folklore sometimes includes tales where scratching an itch is a bad omen, suggesting something troubling is forthcoming.
Origin of 'itch'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'itch' comes from the Old English word 'iccan', which means 'to itch or scratch'.
- In some languages, the word for 'itch' is closely related to terms describing discomfort, highlighting its universal nature.
The word 'itch' originated from Old English 'giccian', meaning 'to itch or itchiness'. It is related to Middle Dutch 'gicke', meaning 'itch', and German 'jucken', meaning 'to itch'. The sensation of itching has been a common human experience throughout history, often associated with skin irritation or insect bites.