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Hiccupping Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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hiccupping

[ˈhɪkəpɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

involuntary actions

Hiccupping is the involuntary contraction of the diaphragm, followed by a quick closure of the vocal cords, which produces a distinctive sound. This phenomenon can occur after eating too quickly, consuming carbonated beverages, or experiencing sudden excitement. While hiccups are usually harmless and temporary, they can be annoying and, in rare cases, may persist for an extended period. Short bouts of hiccupping typically last a few minutes, but chronic hiccups can last for days or even months, requiring medical intervention.

Synonyms

hickup, hickups, singultus.

Examples of usage

  • She couldn't stop hiccupping after drinking soda.
  • The baby was hiccupping cutely in her arms.
  • He started hiccupping during the middle of his speech.
  • After the spicy meal, I found myself hiccupping uncontrollably.

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, spasms involuntarily.
  • Many theories exist about why hiccups happen, but the exact cause is still not fully understood.
  • They can happen to everyone, but they are usually more frequent in babies and young children.

Cultural References

  • In popular culture, hiccups are often portrayed in cartoons and movies for comedic effect.
  • Some cultures believe that if you have hiccups, someone is thinking about you or missing you.

Health & Psychology

  • Typically, hiccups are harmless and resolve on their own within a few minutes.
  • Persistent hiccups lasting more than 48 hours may indicate an underlying health issue and should be checked by a doctor.

Remedies

  • Common remedies for hiccups include drinking a glass of water quickly or holding your breath for a few seconds.
  • Some people believe that surprising a person with hiccups can help them stop!

Origin of 'hiccupping'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'hiccup' comes from the 17th-century term 'hickup,' which mimicked the sound itself.
  • In 1682, the spelling 'hiccough' appeared, mistakenly suggesting a relation to 'cough.'

The word 'hiccup' derives from Middle English 'hiccup,' which likely stems from the earlier form 'hikup' or 'hikcoup' found in similar linguistic contexts. The term appears to be a combination of the sound made during the act and the word 'cup,' which may refer to a small quantity or amount, possibly relating to the swallowing action. The phenomenon of hiccupping has been known for centuries, with various cultures attributing different superstitions and remedies for its occurrence. In the medical world, the term 'singultus' is also used to describe this condition, coming from the Latin word meaning 'to catch one's breath' or 'to gasp.' This history suggests a long-standing fascination and concern about hiccups, mirrored by the numerous folk remedies and treatments that have surfaced throughout history.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #40,286, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.