shiatsu

noun

shi·at·su shē-ˈät-(ˌ)sü

variants or less commonly shiatzu, often Shiatsu

: acupressure

especially : a form of acupressure that originated in Japan

Examples of shiatsu in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Shiatsu uses fingerlike motions to pinpoint specific areas of the body. — Bestreviews, Mercury News, 15 Sep. 2025 With 16 deep kneading nodes, your giftee can experience ultimate relaxation with a shiatsu massage to loosen up the muscles around their neck and back. — Nashia Baker, Architectural Digest, 2 Nov. 2025 My top tip is watsu (a combination of water and shiatsu, invented in California, of course). — Horatio Clare, Condé Nast Traveler, 29 June 2026 The teahouse is only open to the public for its monthly events, which have included instruction in tea ceremonies and other Japanese arts such as shiatsu. — Marla Jo Fisher, Oc Register, 23 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for shiatsu

Word History

Etymology

short for Japanese shiatsu-ryōhō, from shi- finger + -atsu pressure + ryōhō treatment

First Known Use

1967, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of shiatsu was in 1967

See more words from the same year

Browse Nearby Words

Shia

shiatsu

shibah

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Cite this Entry

Style

“Shiatsu.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/shiatsu. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Medical Definition

shiatsu

noun

shi·at·su

variants also shiatzu

shē-ˈät-sü

often capitalized

: acupressure especially of a form that originated in Japan

shiatsu

noun

Examples of shiatsu in a Sentence

Word History

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

Medical Definition

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