Tingling: meaning, definitions and examples

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tingling

[ˈtɪŋɡəlɪŋ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

feeling

To experience a slight prickling or stinging sensation, often due to cold, a sharp blow, or strong emotion.

Synonyms

prickle, smart, sting.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
tingling	This word is typically used to describe a gentle, often pleasant, sensation of slight prickles and itches. It can be used when describing a physical sensation on the skin or a feeling of excitement. I felt a tingling sensation in my fingers after sitting on my hand for too long. There was a tingling of excitement in the air before the big event.
prickle	Used to describe a sensation that feels like small, sharp points pressing into the skin. It is often felt on a small area of the body and can be associated with discomfort. The sweater made my skin prickle uncomfortably. As she walked through the tall grass, she felt an odd prickle on her legs.
sting	Often used to describe a sharp, sudden pain caused by something like an insect bite or a sharp object. It can also be used metaphorically to describe emotional pain. The bee sting made her arm swell within minutes. His harsh words stung like a slap in the face.
smart	This word describes a sharp, stinging pain. It's commonly experienced with small wounds like cuts or burns and is associated with immediate, sharp discomfort. The antiseptic made the wound smart, but at least it was clean. Her eyes smarted from the smoke.

Examples of usage

The cold wind made her skin tingle.
I felt a tingling sensation in my fingers after hitting my funny bone.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

sensation

A slight prickling or stinging sensation.

Synonyms

prickling, stinging, tickling.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
tingling	Repeated entry; same as the first entry. Repeated entry; same as the first entry
prickling	Describes a sensation similar to multiple small pinpricks. It can indicate a mild to moderate irritation or the onset of a more severe condition. My skin started prickling after I touched the nettles There was a prickling sensation on my scalp when the hair product was applied
stinging	Used to describe a sharp, burning type of pain. Often associated with insect bites, minor cuts, or exposure to irritating substances. This word tends to have a stronger and more negative connotation. The saltwater gave my wound a stinging pain I felt a stinging sensation after the bee stung me
tickling	Refers to a light, often pleasant sensation that makes one want to laugh or squirm. Commonly caused by light touches or gentle movements. The feather caused a tickling feeling on my nose She couldn't stop giggling as the grass tickled her feet

Examples of usage

She experienced a tingling in her toes after sitting for too long.
The tingling in his arm indicated poor circulation.

Interesting Facts

Medical Insights

Tingling, also called paresthesia, can occur when nerves are compressed, like when you sit too long.
It can be a temporary feeling but, if persistent, may indicate underlying health conditions, such as nerve damage.
Certain vitamins, like B12, are essential for nerve health, and a deficiency can lead to tingling sensations.

Cultural Perceptions

In some cultures, tingling in various body parts is believed to be associated with spiritual messages or omens.
Tingles can also refer to the sensation in popular media, often tied to thrilling moments in movies or music.
The term 'ASMR' (Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response) is often used to describe tingling sensations triggered by specific sounds or visuals.

Literary Usage

Tingling is often used in literature to evoke emotions, such as excitement, fear, or anticipation, enhancing the reader's experience.
Classic poetry often describes tingling sensations to convey deep emotional states or the beauty of nature.
Authors may use the term to symbolize a connection between physical sensations and emotional responses in characters.

Psychological Effects

Experiencing tingling can elicit feelings of anxiety or stress, especially if it's unexpected and occurs frequently.
Some people associate tingling with moments of deep relaxation, such as during meditation or mindfulness activities.
Researchers suggest that positive tingles might be linked to feelings of joy or excitement, reinforcing pleasurable experiences.

Scientific Investigations

Studies have shown that tingling sensations are results of specific nerve pathways activating in response to stimuli.
Neuroscience research is ongoing to uncover how our brain perceives and processes these tingling feelings.
Temperature changes, such as cold or heat, can also trigger tingling sensations in some individuals.

Translations

Translations of the word "tingling" in other languages:

🇵🇹 formigamento

🇮🇳 झुनझुनी

🇩🇪 Kribbeln

🇮🇩 kesemutan

🇺🇦 поколювання

🇵🇱 mrowienie

🇯🇵 ちくちくする

🇫🇷 picotement

🇪🇸 hormigueo

🇹🇷 karıncalanma

🇰🇷 따끔거림

🇸🇦 تنميل

🇨🇿 brnění

🇸🇰 mravčenie

🇨🇳 刺痛

🇸🇮 mravljinčenje

🇮🇸 doði

🇰🇿 шаншу

🇬🇪 ჩხვლეტა

🇦🇿 qıcıqlanma

🇲🇽 hormigueo

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,166, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

...
18163 affix
18164 metamorphosed
18165 rostrum
18166 tingling
18167 unjustifiable
18168 flop
18169 frieze
...