tic

[tɪk]

tic Definition

  • 1a sudden, repetitive, nonrhythmic motor movement or vocalization involving discrete muscle groups
  • 2a habitual spasmodic contraction of the muscles, most often in the face
  • 3a feature of a particular situation or system, especially one that is regarded as immutable

Using tic: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "tic" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    He has a nervous tic that causes him to blink frequently.

  • Example

    The child's tic was so severe that it interfered with his ability to speak.

  • Example

    The stock market's daily fluctuations are a tic of the economy.

tic Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for tic

Phrases with tic

  • Tic Tac Toe

    a game in which two players take turns marking Xs and Os on a 3x3 grid, with the objective of getting three of their marks in a row horizontally, vertically, or diagonally

    Example

    Let's play a quick game of Tic Tac Toe before dinner.

  • a repetitive, involuntary movement or sound caused by anxiety or stress

    Example

    She developed a nervous tic after the car accident.

  • tic for tac

    an exchange of blows or insults, typically in an argument or dispute

    Example

    The two politicians engaged in a heated debate, with each trying to get in a good tic for tac.

Origins of tic

from Middle French 'tic' or Middle Dutch 'tikken', meaning 'to touch or pat'

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Summary: tic in Brief

A 'tic' [tɪk] is a sudden, repetitive, nonrhythmic motor movement or vocalization involving discrete muscle groups. It can also refer to a habitual spasmodic contraction of the muscles, most often in the face. In a broader sense, 'tic' can describe a feature of a particular situation or system, especially one that is regarded as immutable. Examples include 'He has a nervous tic that causes him to blink frequently' and 'The stock market's daily fluctuations are a tic of the economy.'

How do native speakers use this expression?