sb. (a.), v. [f. TIP sb.2 or v.1 + TAP sb.2 or v.2; or reduplication of TAP sb.2 or v.2, with alternation of vowel (cf. zig-zag, pit-a-pat).] A repeated tapping or light knocking of alternating character, or the sound made by it. b. attrib. or adj. That taps repeatedly. c. vb. To tap repeatedly or in alternation; hence Tip-tapping ppl. a. Also Tip-tap-toe = TICK-TACK-TOE.
1604. Marston, Malcontent, III. v. Liues not more faith in a home thrusting tongue, Then in these fencing tip tap Courtiers?
1773. Virginia Gaz., 24 June, 2/3.
| That the gentle Tip-tap, | |
| Produc’d a severe Slap. |
a. 1847. Eliza Cook, Winter is here, i. The old robin has come To remind us with tip-tapping bill.
1849. [Dinsdale], Durham Gloss. (E.D.D.), Tip-tap-toe.
1892. Barrett, Essex Highways, etc., 56. The tip-tap of the flail may yet be heard.
1905. Westm. Gaz., 29 Nov., 1/3. Many a time and oft have I sat in the sun and hearkened to the tip-tap, tip-tap of his tiny hammer.
