ricky-tick

[rik-ee-tik, -tik] /ˈrɪk iˈtɪk, -ˌtɪk/

noun

the mechanical, repetitive style and beat of ragtime or early swing music.

adjective, Also, ricky-ticky

[rik-ee-tik-ee, -tik-ee] /ˈrɪk iˈtɪk i, -ˌtɪk i/ (Show IPA)

of or characteristic of such sound or beat.

corny or outmoded.

Origin

1935-40; apparently imitative

Slang definitions & phrases for ricky-tick

adjective

Old-fashioned; outworn; corny: a brassy, ricky-ticky big band sound (1930+ Jazz musicians)

noun

Bouncy ragtime music of the 1920s (1930+ Jazz musicians)

adjective

rinky-dink