Tickler: meaning, definitions and examples

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tickler

 

[ ˈtɪk.lər ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

emotional response

A tickler is often used to describe something that produces a whimsical or playful sensation, typically in relation to humor or amusement. It can refer to a joke or a playful remark that elicits laughter or smiles. In some contexts, it represents a lighthearted interaction aimed at teasing or making someone chuckle. Ticklers can be found in various forms such as anecdotes, puns, or humorous stories that provoke an emotional response.

Synonyms

humor, joke, teaser, witticism

Examples of usage

  • Her tickler about the cat made everyone laugh.
  • He has a talent for coming up with clever ticklers.
  • The comedian's tickler brought the audience to tears of laughter.
Context #2 | Noun

reminder tool

In a practical sense, a tickler can also refer to a system designed for reminding someone of certain tasks or deadlines. In an office setting, tickler files or systems are used to ensure that important follow-up actions are not forgotten. These are typically organized by date or category and serve as physical or digital reminders for various activities, ensuring all responsibilities are met in a timely manner.

Synonyms

alert, notification, reminder

Examples of usage

  • I set up a tickler file to keep track of my appointments.
  • Using a tickler system improved her organization significantly.
  • The tickler notes reminded him of his deadlines.

Translations

Translations of the word "tickler" in other languages:

🇵🇹 provocador

🇮🇳 चिढ़ाने वाला

🇩🇪 Reiz

🇮🇩 penggoda

🇺🇦 дражнитель

🇵🇱 drazniący

🇯🇵 くすぐり

🇫🇷 taquin

🇪🇸 provocador

🇹🇷 kışkırtıcı

🇰🇷 간섭자

🇸🇦 مثير

🇨🇿 podnět

🇸🇰 dráždidlo

🇨🇳 刺激者

🇸🇮 provokator

🇮🇸 örvandi

🇰🇿 қозғалтқыш

🇬🇪 დამ刺激ებელი

🇦🇿 qıcıqlandırıcı

🇲🇽 provocador

Etymology

The word 'tickler' originates from the late 19th century, where it likely emerged from the verb 'tickle,' meaning to touch lightly in a way that causes laughter or amusement. The playful nature of the term reflects the amusing effects associated with tickling. Over time, 'tickler' also developed a secondary meaning, relating to reminders and alerts, likely drawing on the notion of gently prompting someone to remember a task or duty. This dual usage reflects the evolution of language as it adapts to convey multiple meanings based on context, exemplifying the playfulness inherent in the word while also serving a practical function.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #35,568, 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.