Hiccoughs: meaning, definitions and examples

Used primarily in a medical or formal context to describe the sudden, involuntary contractions of the diaphragm muscle leading to hiccup sounds.

• The patient had a prolonged episode of hiccoughs, which required medical attention.
• Persistent hiccoughs can be a symptom of underlying health issues.

Commonly used in informal conversation to describe the involuntary spasms of the diaphragm followed by a 'hic' sound. Also used metaphorically to describe small or minor problems.

• I had the hiccups for ten minutes after drinking that soda.
• There was a small hiccup in the plan, but we managed to fix it quickly.

Commonly used when referring to the act of expelling gas noisily from the stomach through the mouth, often after eating or drinking. It can also carry a negative connotation when describing someone with bad manners.

• After the carbonated drink, he couldn't stop belching.
• Belching loudly at the dinner table is considered rude in many cultures.

Used in everyday, informal contexts to describe the release of gas from the digestive system through the mouth. Often used in a casual or humorous way.

• The baby started burping after being fed.
• He let out a loud burp, causing his friends to laugh.