Tickled
/ˈtɪkəld/noun
Touched or stroked lightly in a way that causes involuntary laughter or a tingling sensation.
Did you know?The deeper origin of tickle is uncertain, but medieval English already used related forms for provoking involuntary laughter or a tingling sensation.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Germanic (probable, uncertain)
Proto-Germanic
*tik- / *tīk-
“A proposed expressive root associated with light touches or quick, small movements; the reconstruction is uncertain.”
Old English
Old English
ticcian
“A possible related form meaning to touch or tickle; its connection to later English tickle is debated.”
Middle English, 13th–14th Century
Middle English
tikelen / tikel(en)
“To tickle, especially by touching lightly and provoking laughter.”
Early Modern English, 16th Century
English
tickle
“To touch lightly so as to cause laughter; also to stimulate or please.”
Modern English
English
tickled
“The past tense and past participle of tickle.”