Tickling: meaning, definitions and examples

Tickling refers to the act of lightly touching someone in a way that makes them laugh or feel uneasy. It is most often used in playful contexts, such as when children are playing together.

• The father was tickling his daughter to make her laugh
• She couldn't stop laughing because the tickling was too much

Giggling is the act of laughing in a quiet, often childlike way. This word is suitable for describing situations where someone is laughing softly and uncontrollably, usually because they are amused or slightly embarrassed.

• The children were giggling in the back of the classroom during the teacher's lecture
• She couldn't stop giggling when he whispered a funny joke

Twitching refers to small, involuntary movements or spasms of the muscles. This word is often used in medical or casual contexts to describe physical reactions that are usually brief and repetitive.

• Her eye was twitching because she was stressed and tired
• The dog started twitching in its sleep, possibly dreaming of chasing something

Tickle can be used as both a noun and a verb. As a verb, it describes the action of touching someone in a way that makes them laugh. As a noun, it describes the sensation one feels when this happens. It is usually used in informal or playful contexts.

• He tried to tickle his friend to make him laugh
• The feather gave her a tickle as it brushed against her skin

Use this word to describe a light, gentle sensation that makes you want to laugh or scratch. It's often caused by light touches.

• The feather was tickling her feet
• His beard was tickling my cheek when he kissed me

Use this word to describe a slight stinging or prickling sensation similar to numbness, often felt in the extremities.

• My hands were tingling after being out in the cold
• I felt a tingling sensation in my fingers when my arm fell asleep

This word is used when describing an uncomfortable sensation on the skin that makes you want to scratch. It can be caused by allergies, bites, or skin conditions.

• The mosquito bite was itching so badly
• My rash has been itching all day

This word refers to a sharp, stinging sensation, almost like being poked with tiny needles. It can be caused by cold, anxiety, or pressure on nerves.

• The cold wind made my skin feel prickling
• After sitting too long, I felt a prickling sensation in my leg

Similar to the previous 'tickling', this can refer to the feeling or act of touching someone lightly to make them laugh.

• The tickling on the back of her neck made her giggle uncontrollably

Similar to 'tickling', 'tickle' is appropriate for the action of making someone laugh by touching them lightly. It is also used to describe a light, tingling sensation.

• She tried to tickle him under his arms to make him laugh

This word is best used when someone is playfully making fun of another person, often with the aim of getting a reaction. It can be light-hearted or mean-spirited depending on the intention.

• He liked to tease his sister by hiding her toys

This word is suitable for situations where a gentle poke or push is meant to get someone's attention or encourage them to take action. It may have a slight negative connotation depending on the context.

• She gave him a gentle prod to remind him to hurry up