pressure point

noun

1
a
: an area on the body sensitive to pressure: such as
(1)
: a discrete point on the body that when pressed causes pain
The technique involves using pressure points along the jaw to cause pain and induce temporary paralysis of the jaw.Margaret Harding
(2)
: a point on the body to which pressure is applied (as in acupressure or reflexology) for therapeutic purposes
… an ancient Chinese art and science that uses pressure points in the feet and hands to relax and revitalize the entire body.Vogue
b
: a point on the body where a blood vessel (such as the femoral artery) can be compressed against an underlying bone to slow blood flow and control bleeding
… begin controlling bleeding by pressing on pressure points or by applying tourniquets.Shakava Andres
c
: a region of the body where a static position tends to cause circulatory deficiency and the development of bedsores
Pressure points of the human body when lying down in bed receive poor blood circulation, which causes the sore.Mike Cote
2
: a sensitive critical issue or matter that can be exploited for one's advantage
political pressure points

Examples of pressure point in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
However, a key pressure point among Democrats is whether Harris will keep Khan. Julia Shapero, The Hill, 31 Oct. 2024 Memory foam and hybrid mattresses are often recommended for hip pain due to their ability to contour to the body and relieve pressure points. Rachel Tavel, Architectural Digest, 30 Oct. 2024 The diminished luster of the Enterprise Management Incentive (EMI) scheme, if employee stock options are taxed as capital gains, and the potential loss of Entrepreneurs’ Relief would create additional pressure points. James McClure, Fortune Europe, 28 Oct. 2024 He is accused of twisting a student's arm behind the student's back and showing pressure points on the chin and face. Drake Bentley, Journal Sentinel, 18 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for pressure point 

Word History

First Known Use

1882, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of pressure point was in 1882

Dictionary Entries Near pressure point

Cite this Entry

“Pressure point.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pressure%20point. Accessed 16 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

pressure point

noun
: a point where a blood vessel runs near a bone and can be compressed (as to stop bleeding) by applying pressure against the bone

Medical Definition

pressure point

noun
1
: a region of the body in which the distribution of soft and skeletal parts is such that a static position (as of a part in a cast or of a bedridden person) tends to cause circulatory deficiency and necrosis due to local compression of blood vessels
Saggy mattresses invite bedsores. One of the best preventive steps for a bedridden patient is use of the special eggcrate foam mattresses that distribute patient weight more evenly softening major pressure points.Paul G. Donohue, The Springfield (Massachusetts) Union-News
compare bedsore
2
: a discrete point on the body to which pressure is applied (as in acupressure or reflexology) for therapeutic purposes
3
: a point on the body where a blood vessel (as the brachial or femoral artery) can be compressed against an underlying bone to slow blood flow and control bleeding
Even before you leave the water, begin controlling bleeding by pressing on pressure points or by applying tourniquets.Shakava Andres, The Florida Times-Union
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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