Pronunciation: [vˈɛlɪkˌe͡ɪt] (IPA) 
The correct spelling of the word "vellicate" is vuh-lih-keyt. The IPA phonetic transcription for this word is /vəˈlɪkət/. The word means to irritate or tickle someone by lightly touching their skin or nerves. It is important to note the double "l" in the middle of the word, as it can be easy to mistakenly spell it with only one "l". The correct spelling ensures clear communication and understanding of the intended meaning.
The term "vellicate" is a verb that refers to the act of lightly pinching, tickling or stimulating a person or object with a quick and gentle touch. The action typically involves using one's fingers or a soft object to produce a sensation of slight discomfort or amusement to the recipient. "Vellicate" can be used to describe a playful and teasing action, often associated with the sensation of tickling, which can elicit laughter or a momentary recoil.
The word "vellicate" comes from the Latin word "vellicare," which means "to pluck" or "to pinch." It embodies the concept of a light touch or a subtle nudge that causes a brief and pleasant sensation. The aim of vellicating is usually to create a pleasurable or amusing experience, stimulating the senses in a lighthearted manner.
"Vellicate" can also be used metaphorically, extending beyond the physical act of tickling or pinching. It can refer to a figurative stimuli that evokes a similar response or reaction, such as a clever comment or witty remark that tickles one's mind or sense of humor. In this sense, "vellicate" serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness between physical and mental sensations, highlighting the potential power of gentle touches, whether literal or figurative, to amuse, engage, or provoke a response.
To twitch, to contract spasmodically, said especially of fibrillary muscular spasms.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "vellicate" comes from the Latin verb "vellicare", which means "to pluck" or "to twitch". It is derived from the noun "vellus", meaning "fleece" or "wool". The Latin "vellicare" eventually gave rise to the Late Latin word "vellicare", which carried the same meaning. From Late Latin, it was borrowed into English around the mid-17th century, retaining its original sense of a slight pulling or twitching sensation. Today, "vellicate" can refer to tickling, irritating, or exciting someone.
