verb

masterbate

MAS-tuh-bayt

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Masterbate (verb) means a common misspelling of masturbate, meaning to stimulate one's own genitals for sexual pleasure, usually to orgasm. The correct spelling has no r in the first syllable: mas-tur-bate.

verb

A common misspelling of masturbate, meaning to stimulate one's own genitals for sexual pleasure, usually to orgasm. The correct spelling has no r in the first syllable: mas-tur-bate.

"The correct spelling is masturbate, not masterbate."

To stimulate the genitals of oneself or another person by hand for sexual pleasure.

"Masturbation is a normal part of sexual development in adolescence."

"Studies find that most adults masturbate at least occasionally."

How to use masterbate

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishTouching your own genitals for sexual pleasure. The word is properly spelt masturbate.

When to use it

Masterbate is a misspelling and should not be used in writing. The correct forms are masturbate (verb), masturbation (noun) and masturbatory (adjective).

Memory tip

Remember the middle syllable is tur, as in turn, not ter. The same slip produces masterbation for masturbation.

Trace the full origin ↓

Easily confused with

masterbate → masturbate → masturbation → masterbation

Common pairings

masturbate regularly compulsive masturbation mutual masturbation

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

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Etymology

Masturbate comes from Latin masturbari, of uncertain formation; the traditional analysis links it to manus, hand, though this is not settled. The variant masterbate is not a separate word but a spelling influenced by the familiar English word master.

Origin: Latin

Synonyms

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masturbate touch oneself self-pleasure

Related words

masturbation masturbate fap self-love wank

Rhymes for masterbate

ate date rate mate abate slate plate state create update locate relate

See all rhymes for masterbate →

Frequently asked questions

Is it masterbate or masturbate?

Masturbate is the only correct spelling. The u in the second syllable comes from the Latin masturbari, and no dictionary recognises masterbate as a variant. The mistake happens because English speakers hear an unstressed vowel and default to the familiar word master.

Is masturbation harmful?

Mainstream medical bodies regard it as a normal and harmless sexual behaviour with no physical ill effects. It is only treated as a problem when it becomes compulsive enough to interfere with work, relationships or daily functioning, or when it causes physical soreness.

What is the meaning of masterbate?

"masterbate" (verb) means a common misspelling of masturbate, meaning to stimulate one's own genitals for sexual pleasure, usually to orgasm. The correct spelling has no r in the first syllable: mas-tur-bate.

What is another word for masterbate?

Other words for "masterbate" include masturbate, touch oneself, self-pleasure.

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