Tickle Meaning and Definition
Tickle
Pronunciation
/ˈtɪkəl/
Part of Speech
Noun, Verb
Definition
A feeling of playful, fondling, or snuggling, often with a sense of joy and laughter, typically involving the use of fingers, hands, or other parts of the body.
Examples
- The kids loved being tickled by their siblings.
- The comedian’s tickling jokes kept the audience in stitches.
Synonyms
- Tease
- Playful pinch
Antonyms
- Bother
- Irritate
Etymology
The word “tickle” has its roots in Old English, where it was spelled “ticlian” and meant to make someone laugh or play with them.
Usage Notes
When used as a noun, “tickle” refers to the act of being playful or fondling. When used as a verb, it means to fondle or play with someone in a playful manner.
Cultural References
The concept of tickling has been ridiculed by philosophers, who argue that it is a form of mental manipulation. The iconic cartoon character Bart Simpson is famous for his love of being tickled.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
“Tickling someone’s fancy” means to appeal to someone’s interest or taste. “Tickled pink” means to be extremely pleased or delighted.
Related Words or Phrases
Words of a similar meaning include “tease,” “playful,” and “fondle.”
Collocations
Tickling is often associated with the following words: “children,” “laughter,” “playful,” and “jokes.”
Frequency of Use
The word “tickle” is relatively common in everyday language, particularly in informal settings, such as with friends or family.
Common Misspellings
Common misspellings include “ticklely,” “tickleing,” and “ticklly.”