pɪntʃ ˈtɪkl̩ ˈtɪtɪleɪt ˈvɛlɪkeɪt irritate as if by a nip, pinch, or tear smooth surfaces can vellicate the teeth the pain is as if sharp points pinch your back touch (a body part) lightly so as to excite the surface nerves and cause uneasiness, laughter, or spasmodic movements