tick
noun
a slight, sharp, recurring click, tap, or beat, as of a clock.
is ticking
-
present progressiveof tick (3rd person singular).present progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or state that is currently taking place in the immediate 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.
“The clock is ticking and if nobody does something about the current situation, something could happen,” Filippi told The Times.
From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 15, 2026
The clock is ticking, the magic is fading and the comebacks are harder than ever to summon.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 31, 2026
From an economic perspective, the clock is ticking.
From BBC ● Jul. 23, 2026
Employment has also continued to hold up, consumer confidence is ticking higher, and new economic data has been largely benign, allowing strong earnings to take the stage.
From Barron's ● Jun. 30, 2026
“You have until Sunday to make up your mind. Time is ticking by.”
From "Courage to Soar" by Simone Biles
