ick
Ick (interjection) means used to express disgust or revulsion. Example: “Ick, there's mould on this bread," she said, dropping it in the bin.”
How to use ick
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA short exclamation of disgust, or (in current slang) that sudden turn-off feeling toward someone you were into.
Very informal; common in speech and social media, not in formal writing.
Word forms
icks plural
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
"_____, there's mould on this bread," she said, dropping it in the bin.
Etymology
An imitative word first recorded around the 1940s, echoing the sound of disgust; it has recently been revived in online dating slang for "the ick".
Rhymes for ick
See all rhymes for ick →Frequently asked questions
What does “ick” mean?
The word “ick” means used to express disgust or revulsion. In plain terms, a short exclamation of disgust, or (in current slang) that sudden turn-off feeling toward someone you were into.
How do you pronounce “ick”?
“Ick” is pronounced ihk (/ɪk/ in IPA).
How do you use “ick” in a sentence?
Here is “ick” used in a sentence: “"Ick, there's mould on this bread," she said, dropping it in the bin.”
What part of speech is “ick”?
Depending on how it is used, “ick” can be an interjection and a noun.
Where does the word “ick” come from?
The word “ick” dates back to around 1940. An imitative word first recorded around the 1940s, echoing the sound of disgust; it has recently been revived in online dating slang for "the ick".
How many meanings does “ick” have?
“Ick” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: used to express disgust or revulsion.