tiktik
tíktik with stress marks
detective; spy; to spy
Usage Note
Tiktik originally referred to a creature from Philippine folklore that accompanies the manananggal (a vampire-like being) and makes a ticking sound. In modern usage, tiktik more commonly means a spy, informant, or private detective, and the verb form means to surveil or snoop on someone.
Examples
" May tiktik sa labas. "
Natural Translation
There's a spy outside.
Literal Translation
Has spy at outside.
" Isang tiktik ang nagmamasid sa kanila. "
Natural Translation
A spy is observing them.
Literal Translation
A spy the observing to them.
" Nagpadala ang pulisya ng isang tiktik upang manmanan ang mga gawain ng pinaghihinalaang grupo. "
Natural Translation
The police sent a spy to surveil the activities of the suspected group.
Literal Translation
Sent the police of a spy to surveil the activities of suspected group.
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