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Masseuse Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ’†
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masseuse

[หŒmรฆหˆsษ™หz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

professional

A masseuse is a person, typically a woman, who provides massage therapy professionally.

Synonyms

bodyworker, massage therapist, masseur.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
masseuse

Typically used to refer to a female professional who provides massage therapy. The term is somewhat old-fashioned and can carry slightly negative or outdated connotations.

  • Sheโ€™s a skilled masseuse who specializes in deep tissue massage.
  • The spa hired a new masseuse to handle their growing number of female clients.
masseur

Typically used to refer to a male professional who provides massage therapy. Like 'masseuse,' it can also feel somewhat old-fashioned or carry outdated connotations.

  • The gym now has a male masseur available for sports massages.
  • As a skilled masseur, he has many regular clients who appreciate his techniques.
massage therapist

A professional and neutral term for someone trained and certified in massage therapy. This term is widely accepted and used in clinical and non-clinical settings.

  • The massage therapist recommended a series of sessions to alleviate her tension headaches.
  • He booked an appointment with a massage therapist after his workout.
bodyworker

A more general term that refers to practitioners who use a variety of techniques to work on the body, which can include massage, but also other methods like chiropractic, acupuncture, or reflexology.

  • He sought the help of a bodyworker to address his chronic pain.
  • Many bodyworkers offer a holistic approach to health and wellness.

Examples of usage

  • She booked an appointment with a masseuse to help relieve her back pain.
  • The masseuse used essential oils during the massage session.
Context #2 | Noun

gender

In some contexts, the term 'masseuse' is used to specifically refer to a female massage therapist.

Synonyms

female massage therapist, woman masseur.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
masseuse

Used to refer to a female who provides massage as a profession. Has a neutral tone but can sometimes carry slight outdated or informal undertones.

  • I booked a session with a skilled masseuse to relieve my back pain
female massage therapist

More modern and professional term to describe a woman whose job is to provide massages. Usually, this term is used in formal or clinical settings.

  • The spa has several qualified female massage therapists who specialize in various techniques
woman masseur

Less common and somewhat confusing because 'masseur' traditionally refers to a male massage therapist. It is better to avoid this term to prevent misunderstanding.

  • Although she is a woman masseur, she is known for her strength and precision

Examples of usage

  • The spa only employs female masseuses for their services.
  • She preferred a female masseuse for her relaxation massage.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, massage is considered an important form of healing and relaxation, often integrating rituals and traditions.
  • Thai massage, known for its unique stretching techniques, is deeply rooted in Thai culture and ancient medicine practices.

Health Benefits

  • Research shows that regular massages can improve circulation, alleviate chronic pain, and reduce stress, enhancing overall well-being.
  • Massage therapy is sometimes used in rehabilitation settings to help patients recover from injuries more effectively.

Pop Culture

  • The portrayal of masseuses in movies often emphasizes a blend of relaxation and the mystique of personal touch, creating an intriguing atmosphere.
  • In the world of wellness, spas featuring massage treatments have become trendy retreats for those seeking luxury and relaxation.

Tech Innovations

  • With advances in technology, massage chairs and devices have become popular, providing users with the comfort of a massage at home.
  • Mobile apps now allow users to book professional massage services, promoting accessibility to relaxation and healing therapies.

Origin of 'masseuse'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the French term 'masseur' for a male massage therapist, with 'masseuse' specifically referring to a female.
  • It has roots in the Arabic word 'massa,' which means 'to touch' or 'to handle,' reflecting the tactile nature of the profession.

The term 'masseuse' originated in France in the late 19th century and is derived from the French verb 'masser' which means 'to massage'. It was initially used to describe a female massage therapist. Over time, the term has become more gender-neutral, with 'masseur' being used to describe male massage therapists. The profession of a masseuse has evolved to include various techniques and practices aimed at promoting relaxation and well-being.

See also: amass, mass, massacre, massage, masses, masseur, massive.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #36,671, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.