A strong, durable fabric traditionally used for covering mattresses and pillows, characterized by tight weaving and often striped patterns. Also refers to the rhythmic sound made by clocks.
From Middle English 'tikken', related to the fabric's tight weave that prevents filling from 'ticking' or poking through. The clock-related meaning developed from the imitative sound of timepiece mechanisms. Both meanings emerged in the 14th-15th centuries.
The dual meaning of 'ticking' creates interesting linguistic coincidences - both clock ticking and mattress ticking relate to regularity and containment: clocks contain time in regular intervals, while ticking fabric contains stuffing materials. This semantic parallel shows how practical human needs shape language development.
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