いちゃいちゃ

Mimetic word (擬態語(ぎたいご)) describing openly affectionate behavior between a couple — touching, whispering, clinging, etc. Almost always used with する.

Usage

Often carries a mildly negative or teasing tone from the observer's perspective. The speaker typically finds the behavior embarrassing, excessive, or annoying. Can also be used playfully between friends.

Common patterns

• いちゃいちゃする: to flirt, to be lovey-dovey
• 人前(ひとまえ)でいちゃいちゃする: to flirt in public
• いちゃいちゃカップル: lovey-dovey couple
• いちゃいちゃしないで: stop being so lovey-dovey

Similar words

• ラブラブ: lovey-dovey (positive, used by the couple themselves)
• べたべた: clingy, sticky (more negative, emphasizes physical closeness)
• いちゃつく: to flirt (verb form, slightly more negative)

Register

Informal/casual. Common in everyday speech, manga, and TV. Not used in formal writing.