tummyache
Pronunciation
UK
- /tˈʌmɪˌeɪk/
US
- /ˈtʌmiˌeɪk/childishnoun
Description
- Stomach pain
- bellyache
- upset stomach
A tummyache is usually not serious. It is that uncomfortable, achy feeling in your belly when something does not sit well with you. Maybe you ate too much candy, or perhaps a little bug is causing trouble inside. Kids often get tummyaches before big events like school plays or birthday parties because they are nervous. It is a common problem and usually goes away on its own with some rest and gentle care. Think of it as your belly asking for a break. Sometimes "tummyache" is used in a warm, caring way, especially when talking to young children. You might say, "Oh dear, do you have a tummyache?" instead of simply asking, "Do you have a stomachache?" It is a softer, more comforting way to describe the pain.
"Tummyache" is an informal and endearing term for pain or aching in the stomach or belly area. It is most often used when talking about mild discomfort, especially in children. It is a gentler way to describe what might also be called a stomachache or bellyache, and sometimes people use it when they mean a mild stomach upset.
The word itself is a playful combination of "tummy" (a child-friendly term for the stomach or belly) and "ache" (meaning a dull pain). This makes it particularly suitable when comforting a young person who is feeling unwell. You might say, "Poor thing, you have such a tummyache!"
Tummyaches can be caused by many things: eating too quickly, eating something that did not agree with you, gas, stress, or even excitement. While most tummyaches are temporary and go away on their own, pain that is strong or does not go away should be checked by a doctor. However, in everyday conversation, especially when speaking to children, "tummyache" is often used as a lighthearted way to talk about mild discomfort. It is a comforting word that suggests a little care and attention can help. So next time your little one clutches their belly and says, "My tummy hurts!", you will know exactly what they mean.
Examples
- 1
Missing school
Mia stayed home from school because she had a tummyache.
Usage
tummyache is informal and often used by or to children
- 2
Food cause
Too much chocolate gives me a tummyache.
Pattern
give someone a tummyache
make their stomach hurt
- 3
Child speech
"I don't want dinner," Ben said. "My tummyache is getting worse."
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- tummyache