tickle

verb

Definition of ticklenext
1
as in to itch

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2
as in to excite

Related Words

Dissimilar Words

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of tickle As mentioned, Kate is a gifted musician herself and has tickled the ivories at several public appearances, including her annual Christmas carol service. — Tessa Petak, InStyle, 23 May 2026 The woozy, choppily edited party sequence, featuring lots of handheld, cellphone-style footage and glassy slow-motion interludes, clearly illustrates the camaraderie and profound affection between the five main characters, who tease and tickle one another like sportive, overgrown puppies. — Leslie Felperin, HollywoodReporter, 22 May 2026 As the early morning breeze tickles the top of the Santa Monica Bay, three scientists pack into a small whaler boat and push out to sea in pursuit of great white sharks. — Clara Harter, Los Angeles Times, 13 May 2026 Crisp lemonade, frozen strawberries, and club soda blend up into a bubbly, effervescent drink that'll tickle your nose and your taste buds. — Kimberly Holland, Southern Living, 19 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for tickle
Recent Examples of Synonyms for tickle
  1. itch
  2. excite
  3. tingle
  4. amuse
  5. sting
  6. titillate
  7. bore
  8. satiate
Verb
  • It’s made of premium—think fine-gauge fibers that don’t itch—merino wool, a naturally thermoregulating material.
    — Katie Jackson, Travel + Leisure, 8 Aug. 2026
  • Unless, of course, both former NBA stars are just itching to get back in the game of basketball.
    — Zach Dean OutKick, FOXNews.com, 8 Aug. 2026
Definition of itch
Verb
  • Newcomer Bazoumana Toure has also excited with his pace and crossing ability, so may force his way in on the left.
    — Chris Weatherspoon, New York Times, 14 Aug. 2026
  • Ask what excites them, share your vision, and choose one clear next step together.
    — Tarot.com, Hartford Courant, 13 Aug. 2026
Definition of excite
Verb
  • Pain, numbness or tingling in the lower extremities can point to an orthopedic issue, but the same sensations can also signal prostate cancer that has spread.
    — Hanna Wickes, Sacbee.com, 7 Aug. 2026
  • Symptoms include tingling, numbness, muscle weakness, balance issues and muscle cramps.
    — Samantha Agate, Charlotte Observer, 25 July 2026
Definition of tingle
Verb
  • Shraddha relished Kabita’s innocence and was amused by her constant, occasionally nonsensical, chatter.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 13 Aug. 2026
  • Continue reading … HOT AIR – AOC tries to laugh off 'crazy' woke era as thing of the past, but conservatives aren't amused.
    — , FOXNews.com, 11 Aug. 2026
Definition of amuse
Verb
  • February 19 – March 20 Your words may show where being misunderstood still stings.
    — Tarot.com, The Orlando Sentinel, 3 Aug. 2026
  • The pair were stung more than 150 times each and airlifted to the hospital.
    — Raven Brunner, PEOPLE, 2 Aug. 2026
Definition of sting
Verb
  • But the action is so dependent on overwrought dialogue, red herrings, titillating close-ups, and a barrage of throwback songs that the story constantly takes a backseat.
    — CT Jones, Rolling Stone, 8 Aug. 2026
  • Where to Follow Our Black Hat 2026 Coverage Black Hat’s briefing schedule is, as always, jam-packed with interesting demonstrations and titillating panel discussions.
    — Kim Key, PC Magazine, 30 July 2026
Definition of titillate
Verb
  • Outdoor brands like Halfdays, FP Movement, Patagonia, and Athleta have quite frankly never looked better, with cheerful colorways, unique designs, and trail-ready pieces all proving that function doesn’t have to mean boring.
    — Jessica Chapel, Condé Nast Traveler, 7 Aug. 2026
  • That said, woodpeckers are attracted to other types of wood-boring insects, and woodpecker activity doesn’t always indicate that borers are present.
    — Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 Aug. 2026
Definition of bore
Verb
  • Marion Nestle of New York University told Staley that the diet would be effective for temporary weight loss, because of how lean and satiating the meat is.
    — Frank Landymore, Futurism, 6 Aug. 2026
  • Best Shopping Opie’s Candy Store Locals have satiated their sweet teeth at Opie’s Candy Store for over two decades, and for good reason.
    — Kristy Tolley, Travel + Leisure, 6 Aug. 2026
Definition of satiate

Browse Nearby Words

ticking off
tickle
tickled
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Tickle.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/tickle. Accessed 15 Aug. 2026.

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