tick
noun
a slight, sharp, recurring click, tap, or beat, as of a clock.
have ticked
-
present perfectof tick.present perfect
Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the present.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
While jobless claims have ticked up in recent weeks, economists say the readings are still low and suggestive of a healthy labor market.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 18, 2026
Across the country, the government wants more children to have ticked off the skills they need to be fully ready to start school before September.
From BBC ● Apr. 15, 2026
While the annual percentage rates for credit cards have ticked lower, unpaid balances have increased.
From MarketWatch ● Mar. 19, 2026
The years have ticked by, three of them since he last kicked a ball, but every day spent grafting in the gym is one Gerard Deulofeu believes he is a step closer to a "miracle".
From BBC ● Feb. 15, 2026
And if there had been a clock on the island, it would have ticked off exactly three seconds before he lost consciousness and went down hard in the sand.
From "Beauty Queens" by Libba Bray
