tic
/ˈtik/masculine
The Spanish word for tic is tic. If unsure, use tic. Wiktionary also lists chiripiorca.
Meaning: local and habitual convulsive motion (noun)
Ways to say it
| Spanish | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| tic | /ˈtik/ | masculine |
| chiripiorca | /t͡ʃiɾipjoɾka/ (from spelling rules) | Puerto Rico, feminine |
The word refers to a local and habitual convulsive motion. It is often associated with the term muletilla, which describes minor verbal tics or repetitive expressions.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Puerto Rico, the feminine form chiripiorca is used.
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural form of tic is tics.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈtik/
Did you know?
- The word muletilla, often paired with verbal tics, literally translates to 'little crutch'.
- While tic is the medical term, in some Latin American countries, the slang word chiripiorca can refer to a state of temporary madness or a sudden fit of laughter rather than a physical muscle spasm.
- While tic is a direct borrow from English, the slang chiripiorca has no etymological connection to the word 'tic' at all.
Examples in context
- El estrés me provoca un tic nervioso en el ojo izquierdo.Stress causes a nervous tic in my left eye.
- Tiene un tic en el ojo.He has a tic in his eye.
- Ese tic es muy molesto.That tic is very annoying.
- Su tic aumentó con el estrés.His tic increased with stress.
Example conversation
Javier and María are discussing a colleague's nervous habit at the office.
- Javier¿Has visto el tic de Juan?Have you seen Juan's tic?
- MaríaSí, es un movimiento en su hombro.Yes, it is a movement in his shoulder.
- JavierParece que está muy nervioso.He seems very nervous.
- MaríaEs verdad, siempre tiene ese tic.It's true, he always has that tic.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “tic” translations and entries tic, chiripiorca, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
