Tickle: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when physically touching someone lightly to make them laugh.

• He reached out to tickle his little sister until she laughed uncontrollably
• The feathers tickled her nose

Used for small, repeated laughs, often in a childish or spontaneous manner.

• The girls couldn't stop giggling at their private joke
• He made a funny face, and she started to giggle

Used for quiet, suppressed laughter, often because of nerves or embarrassment.

• There was a titter of laughter in the classroom when the teacher made a mistake
• She couldn't help but titter when she heard the awkward comment

Used when making fun of someone in a joking or playful way, but can sometimes be hurtful.

• He likes to tease his brother about his hairstyle
• She teased her friend about his crush

Used when something entertains or makes someone laugh.

• The clown managed to amuse the children with his antics
• She read the funny story to amuse herself during the boring flight

Use this word when describing a light, playful touch that causes laughter or mild discomfort. It can be physical or metaphorical.

• The feathers tickle my nose.
• His joke really tickled me.

This word works for a slightly thrilling or stimulating sensation, often caused by excitement, cold, or mild discomfort. It's usually more pleasant or neutral than 'prickle'.

• My fingers tingle in the cold.
• She felt a tingle of excitement as the rollercoaster began to move.

This word describes an uncomfortable sensation on the skin that makes you want to scratch. It often refers to a physical irritation but can also be metaphorical for an urge.

• My back itches after the mosquito bite.
• She had an itch to travel to new places.

Choose this word to describe a sharp, slightly painful feeling, as if being poked by tiny needles. It's typically physical and often associated with prickly plants or sensations.

• My skin prickles when I walk through the tall grass.
• The wool sweater makes me prickle.