© 2026 Sloth Lingo. Learn easy. Lounge wisely.

urticate

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /ˈɜːrtɪkeɪt/

KK: /ˈɜːrtɪkeɪt/

adjective
Definition

Describing a condition that involves the presence of hives on the skin, often causing itching or irritation.


Example

The patient was diagnosed with an urticate rash after the allergic reaction.


Conversation
Sloth A
I noticed that my skin is really itchy today.
Sloth B
Oh no, do you think it might be urticate hives?
Sloth A
That's what I'm worried about; they can be so uncomfortable.
Sloth B
Yeah, you should definitely see a doctor if it gets worse.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
hive
itchy
irritated
Antonyms
smooth
calm
soothing
intransitive verb
Definition

To cause a stinging or itching feeling on the skin.


Example

The plant can urticate if you touch it without protection.


Tense Forms

Past: urticated

Past Participle: urticated


Conversation
Sloth A
I think I touched a plant that made my skin urticate a little.
Sloth B
Ouch! That sounds annoying, what kind of plant was it?
Sloth A
I’m not sure, but it definitely made me itch.
Sloth B
transitive verb
Definition

To sting or whip someone with nettles or to cause a stinging sensation similar to that of nettles.


Example

The plant can urticate the skin if touched carelessly.


Tense Forms

Past: urticated

Past Participle: urticated


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you know that some plants can urticate when you touch them?
Sloth B
Really? I thought that only happened with nettles.
Sloth A
Yeah, it's surprising how many plants have that defense mechanism.
Root Explanation

Urticate → It is formed from "urtica" (meaning nettle) and the suffix "-ate" (indicating to cause or to make). The word "urticate" means to cause a stinging or prickling sensation, similar to the effect of nettles.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'urtica' which refers to nettles that cause a stinging sensation — this helps you remember that 'urticate' means to cause a similar prickling feeling.

Visually Confused Words
suricate
muricate
rusticate
particate
lubricate
corticate
busticate
urinate
Is this page helpful?
You should be careful; some plants can really cause a bad reaction.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
sting
itch
prickle
Antonyms
soothe
calm
relieve
Sloth B
I guess you have to be careful in the wild then!

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
sting
prick
whip
Antonyms
soothe
calm
comfort