# hiccups

/ˈhɪkəps/ (US) · /hˈɪkʌps/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/hiccups
Updated: 2026-08-27

## Senses

### 1. physical spasms

noun · CEFR B2

a series of quick, repeated sounds and movements in your throat that you cannot stop.

For teachers: a state of involuntary spasms of the diaphragm, typically resulting in a sharp sound; usually used with the definite article.

- I drank my water too fast and now I have the hiccups.
- The patient suffered from persistent hiccups for several hours, which the doctor attributed to a minor irritation of the phrenic nerve.

Usage: Usually used as 'the hiccups' when referring to the physical condition.

### 2. minor problems

noun · CEFR B2 · Informal

small problems or delays that stop something from working perfectly for a short time.

For teachers: minor setbacks, glitches, or temporary difficulties in a process or plan.

- We had a few hiccups with the new computer system this morning.
- Despite some initial hiccups regarding the venue booking, the conference proceeded exactly as scheduled.

## Examples

- I drank my soda too fast and got the hiccups.
- Holding your breath for ten seconds is a common home remedy for getting rid of the hiccups.
- While usually a temporary annoyance caused by digestive irritation, persistent hiccups can occasionally signal more serious underlying neurological or metabolic issues that require medical attention.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.