How Do You Spell TICKLISH?

Pronunciation: [tˈɪklɪʃ] (IPA)

The word "ticklish" is spelled with three syllables: /ˈtɪk.lɪʃ/. The first syllable, "tick," is spelled with a short "i" sound followed by a "k" consonant. The second syllable, "-li-," is spelled with a short "i" sound followed by an "l" consonant. The final syllable, "-sh," is spelled with the "sh" consonant cluster. Together, these sounds form a word that describes a sensation or feeling of being uncomfortable or easily amused by light touches or movements.

TICKLISH Meaning and Definition

1. Ticklish is an adjective that describes a sensation or feeling which is caused by light touches or strokes and typically induces laughter or discomfort. When something is described as ticklish, it means it is highly sensitive to touch and prone to a tickling sensation. This can refer to one's body, specific spots or areas thereof, or even figurative situations or subjects.

   In terms of physical touch, ticklishness can vary from person to person. Some individuals may find their feet, armpits, or sides to be particularly ticklish, whereas others may have different sensitive areas. A ticklish sensation can range from mildly pleasurable to highly uncomfortable, depending on the level of sensitivity of the individual involved.

   Figuratively, ticklish can be used to describe situations, topics, or questions that are difficult or delicate to handle. In this context, it implies a level of sensitivity or complexity that requires careful consideration and thoughtfulness. For instance, discussing political issues with one's family members may be described as ticklish, as it involves balancing different perspectives and avoiding potential conflict.

   In summary, "ticklish" refers to the sensitivity of touch or a situation that induces laughter, discomfort, or requires delicate handling. Whether it relates to physical sensations or figurative situations, ticklishness involves being sensitive to touch, susceptible to tickling, or encountering intricacies that demand careful approach and understanding.

2. Easily tickled; easily moved or affected; tottering; nice; critical.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for TICKLISH *

• tickelish 42.8571428%
• tickleish 28.5714285%
• tickilish 28.5714285%

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for TICKLISH

• ticalish
• ticklesh
• ricklish
• ficklish
• gicklish
• yicklish
• 6icklish
• 5icklish
• tucklish
• ticklishy
• dicolith
• thickoish
• Nicolish
• Yocklish
• Trickligh
• tikleish
• tickleesh

Etymology of TICKLISH

The word "ticklish" has Old English origins. It derives from the Middle English word "tekel", which means "to tickle" or "to touch lightly". It is related to the Old High German word "zicchen" and the Middle Dutch word "kitelen", both of which also mean "to tickle". The suffix "-ish" is added to "tekel" to form the adjective "ticklish", indicating someone or something that is easily tickled or sensitive to touch.