© 2026 Sloth Lingo. Learn easy. Lounge wisely.

tickle

Elementary (A2)

IPA: /ˈtɪkəl/

KK: /ˈtɪkəl/

intransitive verb
Definition

To feel a tingling sensation on the skin, often caused by light touch or movement.


Example

When the feather touched her skin, she couldn't help but giggle because it tickled.


Tense Forms

Past: tickled

Past Participle: tickled


Conversation
Sloth A
I love when someone tries to tickle me; it always makes me laugh.
Sloth B
Really? I find it a bit annoying sometimes.
Sloth A
But it's such a fun way to lighten the mood and feel happy!
Sloth B
I guess it does have its moments, especially with good friends.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
tingle
stimulate
excite
Antonyms
calm
soothe
dull
noun
Definition

A feeling of light touch that causes laughter or a reaction, often when someone touches a sensitive area of the body.


Example

The tickle on my feet made me laugh uncontrollably.


Conversation
Sloth A
I can't believe how much that game made me tickle with laughter.
Sloth B
Right? The jokes were just spot on.
Sloth A
I love that feeling of a good tickle in my stomach from laughing too hard.
Sloth B
transitive verb
Definition

To touch someone lightly in a way that makes them laugh or feel a tickling sensation.


Example

She loves to tickle her little brother to make him laugh.


Tense Forms

Past: tickled

Past Participle: tickled


Conversation
Sloth A
I can't believe how much that movie made me laugh!
Sloth B
Right? The part where they tickle each other was hilarious.
Sloth A
I know! It always gets me when they try to hide from it.
Sloth B
Root Explanation

Tickle originates from Middle English 'tiklen', which is of uncertain origin but may be related to the Old Norse 'tikka', meaning to touch or pat lightly. The word describes the action of lightly touching someone to produce a sensation of laughter or discomfort.

Memory Tip

Imagine a light touch that makes you laugh — that's what tickling does, and it connects to the idea of a gentle pat or touch.

Visually Confused Words
trickle
stickle
tricklet
strickle
stickler
atrickle
tinkle
tackle
Is this page helpful?
Me too! It's the best part of watching comedies.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
stimulus
sensation
jolt
Antonyms
pain
discomfort
irritation
Totally! It's such a fun way to break the tension.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
amuse
delight
tease
Antonyms
bore
displease
offend