Synonyms for

Tickle

Verb / ˈtɪkʌl / Another word for tickle — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

to lightly touch someone in a way that causes them to laugh or squirm

Synonyms & similar words

tickling vibrate thrill vellicate titillation titillate giggle titter amuse delight entertain pleasure titillate excite thrill stir provoke stimulate arouse interest tempt seduce persuade convince influence manipulate

Synonyms by register

Formal

stimulate excite amuse

Informal

giggle chuckle squirm

Literary

titillate caress

Antonyms

annoy bother irritate displease offend distress

Common collocations

  • tickle the fancy
  • tickle your funny bone
  • tickle a baby
  • tickle someone's arm
  • tickle the ivories
  • tickle the palate

Word family

noun tickle
verb tickle
adjective ticklish

Usage note

The verb 'tickle' can refer to the physical sensation or to amusing someone. 'Tickle the fancy' is a common idiom meaning to attract or appeal to someone.

Example sentences

  1. The feathers on my feet tickle me when I walk without shoes.
  2. My little sister loves when I tickle her belly.
  3. Tickling is a fun way to make someone laugh.
  4. I can't stop laughing when my friend tickles me.
  5. My dog loves it when I tickle his ears.

Quotes

  • Laughter is the sun that drives winter from the human face. - Victor Hugo
  • A good laugh is sunshine in the house. - William Makepeace Thackeray
  • Laughter is an instant vacation. - Milton Berle

Try these popular words

the and that for you with was this are have not from

Practice

Play the Word Synonyms game · Choose level (start near 1)

Worksheets

Grade 4 · Grade 5 · Grade 6

Topics

Guides

Explore more words