“Tic” or “Tick”

Overview

tic / tick are similar-sounding terms with different meanings (referred to as homophones). To better understand the differences, see below for definitions, pronunciation guides, and example sentences using each term. 👇

Definitions

tic: (noun) a local and habitual twitching especially in the face.

tick: (noun) a metallic tapping sound. (noun) any of two families of small parasitic arachnids with barbed proboscis; feed on blood of warm-blooded animals. (noun) a light mattress. (verb) make a sound like a clock or a timer. (verb) sew.

Pronunciation

tic: t·IH·k

tick: t·IH·k

Trends

📈 See Trends