# ticking

/ˈtɪkɪŋ/ (US) · /tˈɪkɪŋ/ (UK)

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

## Senses

### 1. a rhythmic sound

noun · CEFR B1

the short, repeating sound made by a clock or a timer.

For teachers: a series of short, sharp, rhythmic sounds, typically produced by a mechanical clock or similar timing device.

- The loud ticking of the old clock in the hall made it hard to sleep.
- The only sound in the silent library was the rhythmic ticking of the grandfather clock, marking each second with mechanical precision.

Usage: Often used as an uncountable noun when describing the general sound.

### 3. heavy fabric

noun · CEFR C2 · Technical

a very strong, thick cloth used to cover mattresses and pillows.

For teachers: a strong, durable, closely woven cotton or linen fabric, traditionally used for mattress covers and pillows to prevent feathers from poking through.

- The antique pillow was covered in a blue and white striped ticking.
- The upholsterer recommended a heavy-duty ticking to ensure the new mattress would withstand years of wear without tearing.

Usage: Usually refers to the specific striped pattern associated with this material.

## Examples

- The loud ticking of the wall clock kept me awake all night.
- In the silence of the library, the only sound was the rhythmic ticking of the grandfather clock in the corner.
- The steady ticking of the metronome provided a relentless pulse against which the student struggled to maintain the correct tempo of the sonata.

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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.