tick
tick
UK[tɪk]US[tɪk]
n
a short, sharp, repeated light sound, like that made by a clock or watch
n
a very small creature like a spider that attaches itself to the skin of larger animals and sucks their blood
v
to make a short, sharp, regular sound
v
to put a small mark (✓) next to something to show it is correct or has been dealt with
Etymology
the word 'tick' for the sound is onomatopoeic in origin, imitating a light, sharp, repetitive noise. it is attested from middle english 'tek' or 'tik', and is related to similar words in other germanic languages like dutch 'tik' and german 'ticken'. the meaning for the parasitic arachnid, first recorded in old english as 'ticia', is likely unrelated and may have a separate, obscure origin, though some theories connect it to a root meaning 'goat' in armenian or 'insect' in greek, reflecting its association with animals. the verb sense 'to mark with a check' emerged in the mid-17th century, possibly from the idea of making a light, quick sound or mark akin to the sound of a clock.
Analysis
this word is a simplex form. its core form has been inherited directly from old english and middle english without clear, separable morphemes in its modern spelling.
Examples
the only sound in the room was the steady tick of the grandfather clock.
after hiking in the woods, check your dog carefully for ticks.
please tick the boxes that apply to your situation.