a sudden, repetitive, nonrhythmic motor movement or vocalization involving discrete muscle groups, a habitual spasmodic contraction of the muscles, most often in the face

motor tic, vocal tic, Tourette's syndrome

Formal and Informal Expressions of tics

In different contexts, you can replace 'tics' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'spasm, convulsion' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'twitch, jerk' is a commonplace synonym.

tics: Explore its Definition & Usage

tics 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

Using tics: Examples

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

Example
He has tics that cause him to blink frequently.
Example
The child's tics were a symptom of Tourette's syndrome.
Example
She developed facial tics after the accident.

tics Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for tics

spasm
convulsion
twitch
jerk
involuntary movement

Phrases with tics

motor tic
a sudden, involuntary movement of a muscle group
Example
His motor tics include blinking and shrugging his shoulders.
vocal tic
a sudden, involuntary sound made with the voice
Example
Her vocal tics include throat clearing and grunting.
Tourette's syndrome
a neurological disorder characterized by repetitive, involuntary movements and vocalizations called tics
Example
People with Tourette's syndrome may experience both motor and vocal tics.

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Summary: tics in Brief

The term 'tics' [tɪks] refers to sudden, repetitive, nonrhythmic motor movements or vocalizations involving discrete muscle groups. It is often associated with Tourette's syndrome, a neurological disorder characterized by repetitive, involuntary movements and vocalizations called tics. Examples of tics include blinking, throat clearing, and grunting.