tickle

To tickle someone is to touch them lightly in a way that makes them laugh or gives them a strange, hard-to-control feeling. It is often playful, like when someone touches a baby under the chin or along the ribs. But the word is not only about physical touch. Something can tickle your nose or throat by causing a light, uneasy feeling. An idea can also tickle your fancy, meaning it catches your interest and feels appealing.

The word usually suggests something light rather than strong. It can describe a playful touch, a small physical feeling, or a gentle sense of interest or pleasure.

In its most common sense, "tickle" means to touch a sensitive part of the body lightly so that the person laughs or squirms. People often think of the ribs, feet, or underarms when they hear this word. It usually has a playful feeling, especially between parents and children or among friends, though not everyone enjoys it.

The word can also describe a light feeling on the body that is not playful. A feather might tickle your skin, a hair might tickle your nose, or a drink with bubbles might tickle your throat. In these cases, it means a soft, slightly irritating, or tingling feeling rather than laughter.

It also has figurative uses. Something can tickle your fancy if it attracts you or seems interesting. A joke might tickle you, meaning it amuses you. The phrase "tickled pink" means very pleased. Across these uses, the word usually suggests a light reaction: laughter, mild pleasure, interest, or a small physical sensation.