ticker tape

American  

noun

1. the ribbon of paper on which a ticker prints quotations or news.

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ticker tape British  

noun

1. stock exchange a continuous paper ribbon on which a tape machine automatically prints current stock quotations

2. (mainly in New York) the showering of the motorcade of a distinguished politician, visiting head of state, etc, with ticker tape as a sign of welcome

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Etymology

Origin of ticker tape

An Americanism dating back to 1900–05

Example Sentences

That probably won’t be enough to impress a new generation of individual investors, who have said the index is about as relevant as paper stock certificates or ticker tape.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 8, 2026

Flares were let off, ticker tape flickered in the air and a stunning tifo rose from the terraces with an accompanying banner reading "For my town, for my club".

From BBC • Nov. 25, 2025

Soon after, ticker tape, Shea Stadium and winning Mets seasons all fell out of style.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 15, 2024

Shortly after her Wimbledon victory, Gibson returned home to a ticker tape parade in New York City, becoming the second Black American after Jesse Owens to be honored in that way.

From Salon • Aug. 26, 2024

Eleanor had spent so much time thinking about what it would be like to finally come home and how much she missed everybody—she thought they'd throw her a ticker tape parade.

From "Eleanor & Park" by Rainbow Rowell