He started chewing with his mouth open, and it gave me the ick. I can't look at him the same.

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Though the exact origin of the word “ick” is unclear, it is believed to have originated from an episode of the late 1990s/early 2000s show Ally McBeal. The phrase was used again during that time in an episode of Sex and the City called “The Ick Factor." The term “ick” typically describes a sudden feeling of disgust, often towards a romantic partner. For example, one might say they got the “ick” because their partner talked in a baby voice. These "icks" are usually sudden and triggered by minor behaviors.

After gaining popularity on TikTok, many users started creating their own “ick lists” for romantic partners. These lists often include both humorous "icks," like leaving the toilet seat up, and genuine deal breakers, such as being disrespectful to their parents. Many also use the word “ick” in the context of trying to move on from someone. For instance, if someone’s ex-partner mistreated them but they can't seem to move on, they might try to give themselves the “ick” by picturing their ex doing something embarrassing or gross. The term "ick" has thus become a widely recognized and relatable concept, illustrating how minor irritations can significantly impact romantic feelings and help people navigate their relationships and emotional boundaries.