Vel·li·cate v. t. [imp. & p. p. Vellicated p. pr. & vb. n. Vellicating.] To twitch; to cause to twitch convulsively.
Convulsions, arising from something vellicating a nerve in its extremity, are not very dangerous. --Arbuthnot.
Vel·li·cate, v. i. To move spasmodically; to twitch; as, a nerve vellicates.
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vellicate
v 1: touch (a body part) lightly so as to excite the surface
nerves and cause uneasiness, laughter, or spasmodic
movements [syn: tickle, titillate]
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]