Definition of Hiccups
Hiccups: A hiccup is an extraordinary type of
respiratory movement involving a sudden inspiration (intake of air)
due to an involuntary contraction of the diaphragm accompanied by
closure of the glottis (the vocal apparatus of the larynx).
The abrupt inspiration is the result of a sudden
contraction of the diaphragm. Closure of the glottis then halts the
incoming air. The column of air strikes the closed glottis to produce
the characteristic sound: a hiccup.
Hiccups are often rhythmic. They are usually just a minor
nuisance, but prolonged hiccups can become a major medical problem.
The word "hiccup" was in use by 1530. It is an instance of
onomatopoeia, the imitation of natural sounds by words. Alternative
forms of "hiccups" include "hiccough" and "hickup."
Last Editorial Review: 3/26/1998 2:25:00 PM
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