Meaning of the word hiccup in English

What does hiccup mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

hiccup

US /ˈhɪk.ʌp/
UK /ˈhɪk.ʌp/
"hiccup" picture

Noun

1.

an involuntary spasm of the diaphragm and respiratory organs, with a sudden closure of the glottis and a characteristic sound

Example:
She let out a loud hiccup during the quiet movie.
I have the hiccups and can't stop them.
2.

a minor problem or setback

Example:
There was a slight hiccup in our travel plans.
The stock market experienced a brief hiccup yesterday.

Verb

to suffer from or make the sound of a hiccup

Example:
He started to hiccup after eating too fast.
The baby hiccupped softly in her sleep.