Masseuse Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
masseuse
[หmรฆหsษหz ]
Definitions
professional
A masseuse is a person, typically a woman, who provides massage therapy professionally.
Synonyms
bodyworker, massage therapist, masseur.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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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 The term is somewhat old-fashioned and can carry slightly negative or outdated connotations.
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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 Like 'masseuse,' it can also feel somewhat old-fashioned or carry outdated connotations.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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?
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 Has a neutral tone but can sometimes carry slight outdated or informal undertones.
|
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.
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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.
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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.
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- 36668 fraternizing
- 36669 staggeringly
- 36670 snoozing
- 36671 masseuse
- 36672 twittered
- 36673 potsherd
- 36674 auk
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