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Hiccupped Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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hiccupped

[ˈhɪk.ʌpt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

physical reaction

Hiccupped is the past tense of 'hiccup', which refers to the involuntary contraction of the diaphragm muscle. This contraction is often followed by the sudden closure of the vocal cords, producing a characteristic sound. Hiccups can occur due to various reasons, including eating too quickly, consuming carbonated beverages, or experiencing sudden changes in temperature. While usually harmless, persistent hiccups can sometimes indicate an underlying health issue.

Synonyms

hickup, suction.

Examples of usage

  • He hiccupped after drinking soda too fast.
  • She hiccupped during the movie, causing laughter.
  • After the big meal, he hiccupped several times.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Hiccups occur when the diaphragm, a muscle that helps you breathe, contracts involuntarily, causing your vocal cords to close quickly.
  • They can last for just a few minutes or persist for days, and in rare cases, can signify an underlying medical condition.
  • Studies suggest that drinking water, swallowing sugar, or holding one's breath can help stop hiccups by resetting the diaphragm.

Pop Culture

  • Hiccups have been featured humorously in films and cartoons, often as a sign of nervousness or a quirky character trait.
  • Famous shows like 'Friends' and movies like 'The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy' showcase hiccuping as a comedic device.
  • Many cultures have different folk remedies for hiccups, ranging from drinking water upside down to being startled.

Health

  • While most hiccups are harmless, persistent ones lasting more than 48 hours might need medical evaluation.
  • They can also be triggered by spicy foods, alcohol, carbonated drinks, or sudden temperature changes in the stomach.
  • Some research indicates that stress and excitement can induce hiccups, highlighting the connection between emotions and physical reactions.

Historical References

  • Throughout history, people believed that hiccups were caused by ghosts or spirits trying to communicate.
  • In the 17th century, hiccups were sometimes viewed as a sign of mental instability or distress.
  • The longest recorded case of hiccups lasted for 68 years, illustrating how persistent this condition can be.

Origin of 'hiccupped'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the early 19th century, stemming from the older word 'hiccup' which mimics the sound itself.
  • In Old English, the term was 'hickup', which has evolved over time but still reflects the sound it describes.
  • Hiccups are often called 'singultus' in medical terms, derived from the Latin, meaning 'to catch one's breath' or 'to gasp'.

The word 'hiccup' is believed to have originated from the Middle English 'hichup', which itself came from an imitation of the sound made during the act of hiccupping. The term likely has roots in onomatopoeia, mimicking the sound produced by the involuntary spasm of the diaphragm. Over time, different languages have developed similar terms to describe this peculiar phenomenon. For example, in Latin, the word 'singultus' refers to a similar condition, indicating that hiccups have been recognized and named in various cultures throughout history. The phenomenon of hiccuping has been studied in medical science, leading to a deeper understanding of its causes and potential remedies.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,684, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.