Ticklish

/ˈtɪk.lɪʃ/

Meaning & Definition

adjective

Sensitive to light touch; easily excited to laughter or a reflex action.

She is so ticklish that even a gentle poke makes her giggle uncontrollably.

Creating a sensation of slight discomfort; requiring careful handling.

The situation is quite ticklish, and we need to approach it delicately to avoid any misunderstandings.

Subject to being easily affected by physical touch; sensitive.

The toddler is very ticklish and loves to be chased around for a tickle fight.

Middle English tickelisch, from tickle + -ish.

ticklish situation

A delicate or precarious situation that requires careful handling.

ticklish issue

A sensitive issue that may provoke strong reactions.

tickle

to touch someone lightly so as to cause laughter.

sensitive

likely to be easily hurt or offended.

tender

showing gentleness, kindness, and concern.

Easily amused or entertained.

He's so ticklish; just a funny video makes him laugh like crazy.

Overly sensitive or touchy about a topic.

Don't mention the incident around her; she's still ticklish about it.