ENGLISH
REFERENCE

clicking

v. · n.
US //ˈkɫɪkɪŋ// UK //klˈɪkɪŋ// click·ing
  1. 1 using a computer mouse (v.)
    A2 Elementary Computing

    pressing a button on a computer mouse or touch pad to select something.

    the act of depressing and releasing a button on a pointing device to trigger a software command.

    Example

    I kept clicking the link, but the website wouldn't open.

    Example

    After clicking the confirmation button, the user is redirected to a secure payment gateway to complete the transaction.

    Usage

    Often used with the preposition 'on' before the object.
  2. 2 making a sharp sound (v.)
    B1 Intermediate

    making a short, sharp sound, like a pen or a lock.

    producing a brief, sharp, percussive sound through mechanical contact or movement.

    Example

    The sound of her heels clicking on the floor echoed in the quiet hallway.

    Example

    The rhythmic clicking of the old radiator provided a constant background noise throughout the winter months.
  3. 3 suddenly understanding (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Informal

    suddenly becoming clear or starting to make sense to you.

    the mental process of a concept or solution suddenly becoming clear or falling into place.

    Example

    I didn't understand the math problem at first, but then it started clicking.

    Example

    The complex grammar rules finally started clicking for the students after they saw them used in a real-world conversation.
    • registering
    • dawn on
  4. 4 a series of sharp sounds (n.)
    B1 Intermediate

    a short, sharp sound that happens once or many times.

    a succession of short, sharp sounds produced by mechanical or digital means.

    Example

    The strange clicking from the engine made the driver pull over.

    Example

    The constant clicking of the Geiger counter indicated that the team was approaching the source of the radiation.

Last updated June 20, 2026