Ticking

/ˈtɪkɪŋ/

Meaning & Definition

noun

The sound made by a clock or similar device.

The ticking of the clock was rhythmic and soothing.

A part of a mechanism that makes a ticking sound, often used in timekeeping.

He fixed the ticking mechanism of his old grandfather clock.

verb

The action of making a ticking sound, often related to a clock or timer.

I could hear the clock ticking in the quiet room.

To mark time in a regular, rhythmic manner.

As she studied, the minutes were ticking away.

Mid 17th century, from the verb tick.

time is ticking

Time is passing quickly.

ticking time bomb

A situation that could become dangerous or explosive.

tick-tock

The sound of a clock; often used to denote urgency.

tick

The actual sound made by a clock.

clock

An instrument for measuring time.

watch

A small timepiece worn on the wrist.

A term used to indicate that time is running out.

You've gotta finish that report soon; the ticking is real!