Tic

A tic is a repeated, impulsive action, almost reflexive in nature, which the actor feels powerless to control or avoid. Tics can be triggered by an emotional state (stress is a common trigger) or sensation, or can happen for no obvious reason.

General types of tics include verbal tics, facial tics, and other muscular tics. Physical and psychological therapy and meditation can cause tics to go away, often permanently.

Muscular tics look something like twitches or quick grimaces, and often affect the eyes and hands. Muscular tics can affect multiple muscles at once. Some forms of stuttering are muscular tics which cause a tightening of the throat, tongue, or vocal cords when speaking or preparing to speak.

Verbal tics can include certain phrases which are uttered uncontrollably, or ejaculations such as curses or grunts in the middle of sentences. Specific verbal tics include compulsive swearing (e.g., Coprolalia, Tourette syndrome).