ticklish
UK: ˈtɪk.lɪʃ | US: ˈtɪk.lɪʃ
adj. sensitive to being tickled, causing a tingling or itching sensation
adj. easily upset or offended; requiring delicate handling
adj. (of a situation or problem) difficult to deal with due to sensitivity
The word "ticklish" combines "tickle," derived from Middle English tikelen (to touch lightly, possibly imitative of light repetitive motion), with the suffix "-ish," which forms adjectives indicating a quality or tendency. The original sense of "tickle" likely mimicked the physical sensation, while "-ish" extended the meaning to describe sensitivity or instability. Over time, "ticklish" evolved metaphorically to describe emotional or situational delicacy.
The child giggled uncontrollably because her feet were extremely ticklish.
He avoided discussing politics, knowing his uncle was ticklish about the topic.
The negotiations reached a ticklish phase when budget cuts were proposed.
She’s ticklish about her height, so don’t joke about it.
The comedian’s ticklish humor walked the line between funny and offensive.