tic
word
Definition
A tic is a sudden, quick movement or sound made by someone, often without being able to control it. Tics often happen repeatedly and can affect the face or body.
Usage & Nuances
"Tic" is mainly used in medical or casual contexts to describe involuntary movements, especially of the face. Do not confuse "tic" (involuntary motion) with "tick" (the insect or marking sign). Common collocations: "nervous tic", "facial tic".
Spanish: ticPortuguese (BR): tiquePortuguese (PT): tiqueChinese (Simplified): 抽搐Chinese (Traditional): 抽搐Hindi: टिक (अनैच्छिक झटका या आंदोलन)Arabic: رعشة لا إراديةBengali: টিকRussian: тикJapanese: チックVietnamese: tật máyKorean: 틱Turkish: tikUrdu: ٹِکIndonesian: tic
Example Sentences
A tic can happen many times a day.
basic
Some children develop a tic in school.
basic
He has a small facial tic when he is nervous.
basic
I thought his wink was a joke, but it turned out to be a tic.
natural
Sometimes stress makes my eye develop an annoying tic.
natural
He tries to hide his tic, but close friends notice it right away.
natural