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vellicate

 - 2 dictionary results

vel⋅li⋅cate

  [vel-i-keyt] verb, -cat⋅ed, -cat⋅ing.
Use vellicate in a Sentence
–verb (used with object)
1. to pluck; twitch.
2. to nip, pinch, or the like.
3. to cause to twitch.
–verb (used without object)
4. to move with spasmodic convulsions; twitch.
Origin:
1595–1605; < L vellicātus, ptp. of vellicāre, freq. of vellere to pull, twitch; see -ate 1

Related forms:
vel⋅li⋅ca⋅tion, noun
vel⋅li⋅ca⋅tive, adjective
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2009.
Cite This Source Link To vellicate
vellicate

verb
1. touch (a body part) lightly so as to excite the surface nerves and cause uneasiness, laughter, or spasmodic movements [syn: tickle] 
2. irritate as if by a nip, pinch, or tear; "smooth surfaces can vellicate the teeth"; "the pain is as if sharp points pinch your back" [syn: pinch] 
WordNet® 3.0, © 2006 by Princeton University.
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