hiccough Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun (usually plural) the state of having reflex spasms of the diaphragm accompanied by a rapid closure of the glottis producing an audible sound; sometimes a symptom of indigestion
    hiccup; singultus.
    • how do you cure the hiccups?
  2. verb breathe spasmodically, and make a sound
    hiccup.
    • When you have to hiccup, drink a glass of cold water

WordNet

Hic"cough noun
Etymology
OE. hickup, hicket, hickock; prob. of imitative origin; cf. D. & Dan. hik, Sw. hicka, Armor. hak, hik, W. ig, F. hoquet.
Definitions
  1. (Physiol.) A modified respiratory movement; a spasmodic inspiration, consisting of a sudden contraction of the diaphragm, accompanied with closure of the glottis, so that further entrance of air is prevented, while the impulse of the column of air entering and striking upon the closed glottis produces a sound, or hiccough. Written also hickup or hiccup.
Hic"cough intransitive verb
Wordforms
imperfect & past participle Hiccoughed ; present participle & verbal noun Hiccoughing
Definitions
  1. To have a hiccough or hiccoughs.

Webster 1913