Ticking clock sounds have been used in film, television and radio for decades to represent passing time and rising urgency, long before short-form video adopted the effect. Online, creators loop or layer the tick under text overlays, exam scenes, waiting room sketches and last-second challenges. The short, loopable format makes it easy to extend for longer pauses or trim for quick cuts. Because everyone recognises the rhythm instantly without needing context, it remains a staple for suspense, deadlines and comedic impatience across memes and edits.