tick over
phrasal verbPart oftick
tick over — phrasal verb
1. (of an engine or machine) to run slowly while the vehicle is not moving or while
(of an engine or machine) to run slowly while the vehicle is not moving or while not in active use.
The engine of the old van ticked over quietly while Hari waited for the traffic light to change.
During the winter break, the factory machinery was left ticking over at a low speed.
2. (of a business, system, or activity) to continue operating at a steady but not v
(of a business, system, or activity) to continue operating at a steady but not very active or exciting level.
The cafe was not busy, but it ticked over with a small number of regular customers each day.
Even with a small team, the project ticked over and met its monthly targets.
3. To continue operating at a steady but low level, especially an engine or a busin
To continue operating at a steady but low level, especially an engine or a business.
The engine ticks over quietly while we wait.
The business is just ticking over until the economy improves.