n. & v. (also hiccough)
--n.
1. a an involuntary spasm of the diaphragm and respiratory organs, with sudden closure of the glottis and characteristic coughlike sound. b (in pl.) an attack of such spasms.
2 a temporary or minor stoppage or difficulty.
--v.
1. intr. make a hiccup or series of hiccups.
2 tr. utter with a hiccup.
Derivatives:
hiccupy adj.
Etymology: imit.