What does massage mean?
Massage is both a treatment and the act of giving that treatment. In its most common sense, it refers to the rubbing, kneading, or manipulation of the body to promote relaxation, relieve muscle tension, or improve flexibility. The word can also mean careful, soothing handling, as when someone receives a reassuring massage after a difficult conversation. In a more critical, figurative use, to massage something means to manipulate or present it in a deliberately favorable way, especially by adjusting figures, language, or an account. This sense often carries the implication that the treatment is dishonest or overly flattering. Massage is widely used in British and American English, particularly in discussions of health, wellness, physiotherapy, and everyday personal care.
A treatment in which a person's body is rubbed, kneaded, or manipulated to promote relaxation, relieve tension, or improve flexibility; also, the act of performing such treatment.
"She had a massage before her presentation."
The therapeutic sense is common in both British and American English.
To rub or knead a person's body as a treatment; figuratively, to handle, soothe, or manipulate information or an account so that it appears more favorable.
"The editor was accused of massaging the report's conclusions."
The figurative use is usually negative or critical, especially when referring to statistics, images, or public statements.
The plural is used for individual treatments or sessions.
"The spa offers a range of massages."
The word massage entered English from French, which borrowed it from Arabic, making this everyday treatment a small example of a global linguistic journey.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does massage come from?
The English word entered through French massage, from French masser, meaning to rub or knead. French had borrowed the term from Arabic masḥ, associated with rubbing, pressing, or massage. The English verb and noun developed from the same French source, while forms such as masseur and masseuse entered English through French and denote a practitioner of massage.
Related word forms
How massage is actually used
In the physical and therapeutic senses, massage is common in British and American English. The figurative senses are somewhat more formal and often imply deliberate exaggeration, distortion, or careful smoothing over, as in massaging data or massaging an image.
Easily confused with massage
A massage involves deliberate rubbing or kneading of the body, whereas a mash is a soft, thick mixture or a crushed form of food.
A massage is a physical treatment involving rubbing, while a message is a piece of information or communication.