hiccup

hic-cup · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    An involuntary spasm of the diaphragm causing a sudden intake of breath with a characteristic sound.

  2. 2.

    (informal) A minor problem or temporary setback.

Forms

plural: hiccups

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    get the hiccups — begin experiencing hiccups
  • •
    a hiccup in the plan — a minor obstacle or delay
  • •
    without a hiccup — smoothly, without problems

Related words

Antonyms: smooth operation
See also: cough, setback, sneeze
Synonyms: glitch, hitch, setback, snag

Etymology

From Middle English hikup, imitative of the sound made. Also spelled "hiccough" by folk etymology associating it with "cough."