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Hiccup
A hiccup (also spelled hiccough) is an involuntary contraction (myoclonic jerk) of the diaphragm that may repeat several times per minute. The hiccup is an involuntary action involving a reflex arc. Once triggered, the reflex causes a strong contraction of the diaphragm followed about 0.25 second later by closure of the vocal cords, which results in the classic “hic” sound.
Hiccups may occur individually, or they may occur in bouts. The rhythm of the hiccup, or the time between hiccups, tends to be relatively constant.
A bout of hiccups, in general, resolves itself without intervention, although many home remedies are often used to attempt to shorten the duration. Medical treatment is occasionally necessary in cases of chronic hiccups.
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Hiccough
A hiccup (also spelled hiccough) is an involuntary contraction (myoclonic jerk) of the diaphragm that may repeat several times per minute. The hiccup is an involuntary action involving a reflex arc. Once triggered, the reflex causes a strong contraction of the diaphragm followed about 0.25 second later by closure of the vocal cords, which results in the classic “hic” sound.
Hiccups may occur individually, or they may occur in bouts. The rhythm of the hiccup, or the time between hiccups, tends to be relatively constant.
A bout of hiccups, in general, resolves itself without intervention, although many home remedies are often used to attempt to shorten the duration. Medical treatment is occasionally necessary in cases of chronic hiccups.
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Hiccup (noun)
A spasm of the diaphragm, or the resulting sound.
“There was a loud hiccup from the back of the room and the class erupted in laughter.”
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Hiccup (noun)
Any spasm or sudden change.
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Hiccup (noun)
A minor setback.
“There’s been a slight hiccup in the processing of this quarter’s results”
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Hiccup (verb)
To produce a hiccup; have the hiccups.
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Hiccup (verb)
To say with a hiccup.
“”I haven’t touched a drop, officer,” the suspect hiccupped.”
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Hiccup (verb)
To produce an abortive sound like a hiccup.
“The car engine hiccupped but wouldn’t start.”
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Hiccough (noun)
alternative spelling of hiccup
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Hiccough (verb)
alternative spelling of hiccup