tick (2)

i. & t. [Of imitative origin.] A. Intransitive: 1. To make a small distinct noise as a going watch or clock; to give out a succe ion of small sharp noises. 2. To strike with a small, sharp sound, or gently, as a bird when picking up its food. "Stand not ticking and toying at the branches nor IMG:content-1106.png:[blocks in formation] IMG:content-1107.png:[blocks in formation] 2. A name for a stock market report autographic telegraph receiver. It prints the quotations on a long tape. ( U.S. Colloq .)