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.
Already, Medicaid enrollment is ticking downward this year.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 31, 2026
"The clock is ticking for him - we just need a bed."
From BBC ● Jul. 21, 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
“There’s reason to believe that while inflation is ticking higher, the consumer isn’t in a perfect spot to absorb this,” said Lorizio at Manulife.
From MarketWatch ● May 26, 2026
Time is ticking and her opponent is good.
From "Black Brother, Black Brother" by Jewell Parker Rhodes
