a sudden, involuntary contraction (spasm) of the diaphragm muscle, a sound made by the sudden contraction of the diaphragm

have the hiccups, hiccup cure, hiccup reflex

Formal and Informal Expressions of hiccup

In different contexts, you can replace 'hiccup' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'diaphragmatic spasm' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'hick-up, hick' is a commonplace synonym.

hiccup: Explore its Definition & Usage

hiccup Definition

1a sudden, involuntary contraction (spasm) of the diaphragm muscle
2a sound made by the sudden contraction of the diaphragm

Using hiccup: Examples

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

Example
He had a bad case of hiccups after drinking too much soda.
Example
The baby's hiccups were so loud that everyone in the room could hear them.
Example
I always get hiccups when I eat too fast.

hiccup Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for hiccup

Phrases with hiccup

have the hiccups
to experience a series of hiccups
Example
She couldn't stop laughing because she had the hiccups.
hiccup cure
a remedy or treatment for hiccups
Example
Drinking water upside down is a popular hiccup cure.
hiccup reflex
the involuntary reflex that causes hiccups
Example
The hiccup reflex is controlled by the phrenic nerve.

Origins of hiccup

from Old English 'hiccian', imitative of the sound

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Summary: hiccup in Brief

A 'hiccup' [ˈhɪkəp] is an involuntary contraction of the diaphragm muscle, often causing a sound. It can be caused by various factors, such as eating too fast or drinking carbonated beverages. The phrase 'have the hiccups' refers to experiencing a series of hiccups, and 'hiccup cure' denotes a remedy or treatment for hiccups.