scarification

noun

scar·​i·​fi·​ca·​tion ˌsker-ə-fə-ˈkā-shən 

1

: the act or process of scarifying

2

: a mark or marks made by scarifying

Examples of scarification in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

This exploration traces the origins and history of PBM, focusing on seven principal types: tattooing, scarification, amputation, piercing, genital, dental and bone shaping. —David L. Coddon, San Diego Union-Tribune, 14 Mar. 2024

Other works evoke decorative geometries of African tribal art, even ritual facial scarification. —Scott Cantrell, Dallas News, 26 May 2023

So will the body piercing, the scarification, the branding, the transdermal and subdermal implants, the ear pointing, the teeth pointing, the tongue splitting, and any other body modifications that are for cosmetic purposes and not deemed medically necessary. —Olivia Evans, The Courier-Journal, 30 Dec. 2022

What's the history of scarification? —Ashley Abramson, Allure, 30 Mar. 2022

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Medical Definition

scarification

noun

scar·​i·​fi·​ca·​tion ˌskar-ə-fə-ˈkā-shən, ˌsker- 

1

: the act or process of scarifying

vaccination by scarification

2

: a mark or marks made by scarifying