LICK Meaning and
Definition
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Lick, as a verb, refers to the action of passing the tongue over a surface or object as a means of tasting, moistening, or cleaning. This action is generally observed in animals, especially mammals, for various reasons including grooming, communication, or in response to a particular taste sensation. When used in the context of humans, licking often refers to the act of moving the tongue over the lips or a particular area of the body as an expression of pleasure, anticipation, or to savor the taste of food and beverages.
As a noun, "lick" can refer to a stroke or movement of the tongue, such as the sound or sensation produced when applying saliva to one's lips. It can also denote a small amount of a substance applied with the tongue, like a lick of ice cream or a lick of paint. Additionally, "lick" can be used to describe a quick and unhurried action or accomplishment, particularly in relation to a task, problem, or musical passage, as in "He passed that test with just one quick lick."
Overall, the multifaceted definition of "lick" encompasses a range of actions involving the tongue, from the physiological behaviors and sensory stimuli observed in animals, to the expressive and pleasurable acts exhibited by humans in various contexts.
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• A passing or drawing of the tongue over; a taste by drawing the tongue over; in U. S., a salt marsh or salt spring to which wild animals resort.
• To pass the tongue over; to sup up liquids with the tongue; to take in with the tongue.
• In familiar language, to beat; to conquer in a fight.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for LICK *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for LICK
Etymology of LICK
The word "lick" has a complex etymology with various meanings and origins across different languages:
1. Old English (Anglo-Saxon): The word "liccian" meant "to lick" in Old English. It can be traced back to Proto-Germanic "likkon" and Proto-Indo-European "leg(h)-", both meaning "to lick" or "to lap".
2. Latin: The Latin word "lingere" also meant "to lick" and is derived from the same Proto-Indo-European root. This Latin word influenced the etymology of "lick".
3. Old Norse: The Old Norse word "lekja" meant "to lick" and possibly influenced the usage and meaning of "lick" in English.
Idioms with the word LICK
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lick sb's boots
The idiom "lick sb's boots" means to excessively or obsequiously comply with the wishes or demands of someone in a position of power or authority, often to gain favor or benefits. It implies a subservient or submissive behavior towards the person in question.
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lick your lips
The idiom "lick your lips" typically means to anticipate something eagerly or to show excitement or greed in relation to a situation or opportunity.
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a lick and a promise
The idiom "a lick and a promise" is used to describe a quick and hasty action, usually in regards to cleaning or completing a task incompletely or superficially with the intention of coming back to it later for further attention or improvement. It implies doing something hastily and without much effort, often leaving the job unfinished or incomplete.
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lick sb's arse/ass, at lick sb's boots
The idiom "lick someone's arse/ass, or lick someone's boots" is a colloquial expression that refers to excessively flattering or obsequious behavior towards another person, usually with the intention of gaining favor, advantage, or receiving special treatment. It implies that someone goes to extreme lengths to please or flatter someone else, often at the expense of their own dignity or self-respect.
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lick one's lips
The idiom "lick one's lips" typically means to be eager, excited, or anticipating something eagerly, especially when it comes to a future event or a promising opportunity. It often conveys the idea of anticipation for something desirable or appealing.
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lick sth into shape
The idiom "lick something into shape" means to improve or to put something in good order through effort and organization. It often refers to refining or correcting something to achieve a desired outcome or making something presentable.
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lick sm or sth into shape
To "lick something or someone into shape" means to bring them into a better condition or state through effort, discipline, or organization. It implies the act of improving something or someone through hard work, discipline, or training, often to meet certain standards or expectations.
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lick of work
The idiom "lick of work" refers to a small or insignificant amount of work or effort. It implies that the work involved is easily completed or requires minimal effort.
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Lick my arse!
The phrase "Lick my arse!" is an offensive and vulgar idiom used to express extreme contempt, defiance, or dismissiveness towards someone or their requests. It is an impolite way of rejecting someone or telling them to go away.
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give sth a lick and a promise
The idiom "give something a lick and a promise" is typically used to describe doing a task or chore hastily or superficially, without putting in much effort or attention to detail. It suggests that the person only performs a quick and cursory job, intending to complete it properly at a later time. It can also refer to the act of hastily applying a minimal amount of effort or attention. The idiom often conveys a sense of temporary or insufficient completion.
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kiss/lick sb's arse
The idiom "kiss/lick sb's arse" is a colloquial expression used to describe someone who excessively flatters or ingratiates themselves to gain favor or benefits from another person. It implies a display of sycophantic behavior, over-the-top flattery, or extreme subservience.
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lick your chops
The idiom "lick your chops" means to anticipate or eagerly await something, often with a sense of excitement or anticipation, particularly when it comes to a pleasurable or favorable situation. It conveys the idea of someone resembling a hungry animal, salivating in anticipation of a delicious meal and eagerly preparing to enjoy it. It is often used to depict someone eagerly awaiting an opportunity or indulging in the potential benefits of a situation.
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lick one's chops
To "lick one's chops" is an idiom that means to eagerly anticipate or be excited about something, usually referring to an upcoming enjoyable experience or a favorable outcome. It relates to the way animals lick their lips in anticipation of a satisfying meal. In human context, it indicates showing voracious excitement or anticipation.
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lick at sth
The idiom "lick at something" means to make small, ineffective efforts to accomplish or solve something. It implies that the person is only making a half-hearted attempt or not putting in enough effort to achieve the desired result.
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lick sth up
The idiom "lick something up" typically refers to consuming or eating something in its entirety, often with great enthusiasm or speed. It can also metaphorically mean to enthusiastically absorb or enjoy some form of entertainment or information.
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lick sth off (of) sth
The idiom "lick sth off (of) sth" refers to the act of using one's tongue to remove or consume something from a surface or another object. It can be used both literally and figuratively. Literally, it describes physically licking a substance off of something. Figuratively, it suggests eagerly or enthusiastically making use of or taking advantage of an opportunity or resource.
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lick the boots of
The idiom "lick the boots of" means to excessively flatter, submit to, or behave subserviently towards someone in a way that is demeaning or obsequious. It implies a willingness to do anything to gain favor or approval from a person in authority or power.
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lick into shape
The idiom "lick into shape" means to improve or bring someone or something into better condition or better form, often through discipline, training, or correction. It implies the idea of transforming something or someone, making them more organized, efficient, or well-prepared.
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lick up
The idiom "lick up" typically refers to the act of eagerly and quickly consuming or enjoying something, especially when it is considered to be scarce or desirable. It can be used metaphorically to describe someone's enthusiasm in acquiring or experiencing something, often with a sense of urgency or voracity.
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lick the dust
The idiom "lick the dust" means to suffer a defeat or humiliation, often in a dramatic or overwhelming manner. It refers to being forced down on the ground and physically licking the dust as a metaphorical representation of being utterly defeated or submitting to a stronger opponent.
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get/knock/lick somebody into shape
The idiom "get/knock/lick somebody into shape" means to improve or correct someone's behavior, performance, or abilities through discipline, training, or strict guidance. It implies the action of pushing or forcing someone to become more competent, efficient, or well-behaved.
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lick somebody’s boots
The idiom "lick somebody's boots" means to submit and behave subserviently towards someone, often to gain favor or approval. It indicates a servile or obsequious attitude toward a person in a position of power or authority.
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lick somebody’s arse
The idiom "lick somebody's arse" is an informal expression that refers to the act of being excessively obedient, subservient, or obsequious to someone in order to gain favor or ingratiate oneself. It implies that a person is willing to go to great lengths, even degrading themselves, to please or appease another individual for personal gain or advancement.
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lick/smack your lips
The idiom "lick/smack your lips" means to show anticipation or satisfaction, often by making a smacking sound with one's lips or by licking them. It typically denotes eagerness or delight before enjoying or anticipating something pleasurable, such as good food, a reward, or a desirable opportunity.
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at a (fair) lick
The idiom "at a (fair) lick" is used to describe doing something quickly or at a fast pace. It implies that the activity or task is being performed swiftly and efficiently.
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ain't got a lick of sense
The idiom "ain't got a lick of sense" means someone lacks even a small amount of common sense or intelligence. It suggests that the person being referred to is foolish, clueless, or lacking in basic understanding or reasoning abilities.
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lick (someone's) arse
The idiom "lick (someone's) arse" is an informal and slightly vulgar expression that means to excessively flatter or brown-nose someone in order to gain favor, advantage, or to win their approval. It implies engaging in subservient behavior or exaggerated praise in an attempt to please or manipulate someone in a servile manner.
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lick (someone's) ass
The definition of the idiom "lick (someone's) ass" is to excessively flatter, praise, or seek favor from someone in a servile or obsequious manner. It implies ingratiating oneself to gain personal benefit or gain someone's approval.
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at a lick
The idiom "at a lick" means to do something quickly or rapidly.
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lick (someone's) boots
The idiom "lick (someone's) boots" means to excessively flatter or show subservience to someone in a way that is perceived as demeaning or excessively obsequious in order to gain favor, privileges, or advantages from them. It implies being overly obedient or servile, as though metaphorically licking the boots of a person in a position of authority.
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lick boots
The idiom "lick boots" means to flatter someone excessively or to behave subserviently in order to gain favor or advantage, often at the expense of one's dignity or integrity. It implies an act of extreme servitude or obsequiousness towards someone in a position of power or authority.
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lick somebody's boots
The idiom "lick somebody's boots" means to behave subserviently or obsequiously towards someone, often out of fear or to gain favor or advantage from them. It implies excessive flattery, yielding to another person's authority unquestioningly, or being overly submissive to their demands or wishes.
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have a lick of the tar brush
The idiom "have a lick of the tar brush" is an offensive racial slur that dates back to the 19th century. It refers to someone of mixed race, particularly a person who has both Black and White ancestry. The phrase is derogatory and should be avoided due to its racist nature.
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give (something) a lick and a promise
The idiom "give (something) a lick and a promise" is used to describe doing a task or completing a job hastily or superficially, without putting in much effort or attention to detail. It implies a quick, temporary fix or a cursory attempt at completing a task, with the promise or intention to return and do it properly later.
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a lick of paint
The idiom "a lick of paint" refers to the act of freshening up, refurbishing, or improving the appearance of something, typically by applying a new coat of paint. It portrays the concept of making superficial changes or enhancements to enhance the overall aesthetic.
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lick (someone or something) into shape
The idiom "lick (someone or something) into shape" means to fix, train, or improve someone or something in order to make them more organized, efficient, or acceptable. It implies bringing order, discipline, or proper functionality to someone or something.
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lick and a promise, a
The idiom "lick and a promise" refers to doing a task quickly and carelessly, with the intention of giving it more attention or effort later. It implies that only a superficial or temporary effort is being made. The phrase originated from the practice of quickly licking a soiled finger and then running it across something to clean or tidy it, hence the idea of doing a task hastily or without thoroughness, promising to do a better job later.
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lick chops
The idiom "lick chops" typically means to anticipate or relish something good that is about to happen, usually in reference to a future event or circumstance. It conveys a sense of excitement or eagerness.
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lick lips
The idiom "lick lips" refers to a person's anticipation or excitement about something, often visualized by them licking their lips. It signifies eagerness, desire, or delight in anticipating a pleasurable or delicious experience.
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lick off
The idiom "lick off" typically means to remove or consume something by licking it with the tongue. It can also be used metaphorically to describe accomplishing or completing a task quickly or effortlessly.
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lick something into shape
The idiom "lick something into shape" means to improve or fix something, especially by bringing it into a proper or satisfactory condition through effort and hard work. It refers to the act of making something look or function better after it was messy, disorganized, or in a poor state.
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lick the stuffing out of
The idiom "lick the stuffing out of" means to consume or devour something completely or vigorously. It is often used figuratively to convey the idea of thoroughly enjoying or experiencing something to the fullest extent. It can be applied to activities, tasks, or opportunities that one performs or indulges in with great enthusiasm or dedication.
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lick something off (of) something
The idiom "lick something off (of) something" means to use one's tongue to remove a substance from a surface, usually in a quick or eager manner. It can also represent the act of consuming or removing something completely and thoroughly, often denoting an enthusiastic or voracious appetite.
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lick (or smack) your lips (or chops)
The idiom "lick (or smack) your lips (or chops)" means to show eagerness or anticipation, typically in relation to something that is perceived as enjoyable or satisfying. It reflects the physical act of licking or smacking one's lips in preparation for eating something delicious, and is used figuratively to convey excitement or enthusiasm.
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lick one's wounds
The idiom "lick one's wounds" means to recover or heal after a defeat, setback, or difficult experience, often by taking time to rest, reflect, and rebuild one's confidence or strength.
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knock/lick/whipsth/sb into shape
The idiom "knock/lick/whip (someone) into shape" means to take action or confront someone in order to help them improve their behavior, skills, or performance. It often implies using strict or forceful measures to bring about positive changes. The idiom can be used figuratively in various situations where someone needs to be disciplined, motivated, or guided towards achieving a specific goal.
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knock/lick sth/sb into shape
The idiom "knock/lick something/somebody into shape" means to improve or prepare something or somebody by applying discipline, hard work, or strict training. It implies the act of making something or someone better organized, efficient, or more effective.
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lick your wounds
The idiom "lick your wounds" means to recover from a defeat or setback by taking time to heal, reflect, and regain self-confidence or strength before returning to a challenging situation. It often refers to the process of recovering emotionally, physically, or mentally after a disappointment, failure, or loss.
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whip sth/sb into shape, at knock/lick sth/sb into shape
The idiom "whip something/somebody into shape" (also known as "knock/lick something/somebody into shape") means to improve, discipline, or organize something or someone in order to achieve a desired outcome or standard. It implies the use of strict measures or discipline to bring order, efficiency, or effectiveness to a situation or individual.
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lick wounds
The idiom "lick wounds" means to recover or heal from a defeat, setback, or painful experience. It refers to taking time to recuperate, reflect, and regain strength before moving forward.
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a lick with the rough side of the tongue
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lick (someone) out
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lick at
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lick the pants off (someone)
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*lick and a promise
A *lick and a promise is a quick and superficial job, especially of cleaning or tidying, that is done hastily and without much effort or care.
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get/knock/lick something into shape
To get/knock/lick something into shape means to improve something, typically by making it more organized, efficient, or effective.
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lick-ass
"Lick-ass" is a derogatory term used to describe someone who flatters or ingratiates themselves with others in order to gain favor or advantage. It is often used to criticize someone who is overly obsequious or insincere in their attempts to please others.
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lick-arse
The idiom "lick-arse" refers to someone who tries to gain favor or advantage by flattering or ingratiating themselves with someone in a sycophantic manner. It typically implies insincere or excessive flattery in order to curry favor or gain approval.
Similar spelling words for LICK
- liza,
- luck,
- Lisa,
- kick,
- lock,
- lies,
- Lige,
- lisu,
- Liss,
- Liskey,
- Lise,
- tick,
- LISI,
- click,
- flick,
- slick,
- Liz,
- Lice,
- link,
- lack,
- Lis,
- sick,
- liska,
- LISH,
- licks,
- like,
- lisk,
- Leick,
- nick,
- Luick,
- pick,
- wick.
Conjugate verb Lick
CONDITIONAL PERFECT
I
would have licked
you
would have licked
he/she/it
would have licked
we
would have licked
they
would have licked
I
would have lick
you
would have lick
he/she/it
would have lick
we
would have lick
they
would have lick
CONDITIONAL PERFECT PROGRESSIVE
I
would have been licking
you
would have been licking
he/she/it
would have been licking
we
would have been licking
they
would have been licking
CONDITIONAL PRESENT
I
would lick
you
would lick
he/she/it
would lick
we
would lick
they
would lick
CONDITIONAL PRESENT PROGRESSIVE
I
would be licking
you
would be licking
he/she/it
would be licking
we
would be licking
they
would be licking
FUTURE
I
will lick
you
will lick
he/she/it
will lick
we
will lick
they
will lick
FUTURE CONTINUOUS
I
will be licking
you
will be licking
he/she/it
will be licking
we
will be licking
they
will be licking
FUTURE PERFECT
I
will have licked
you
will have licked
he/she/it
will have licked
we
will have licked
they
will have licked
FUTURE PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
will have been licking
you
will have been licking
he/she/it
will have been licking
we
will have been licking
they
will have been licking
IMPERATIVE
you
lick
we
let´s lick
to lick
PAST CONTINUOUS
I
was licking
you
were licking
he/she/it
was licking
we
were licking
they
were licking
PAST PARTICIPLE
licked
PAST PERFECT
I
had licked
you
had licked
he/she/it
had licked
we
had licked
they
had licked
PAST PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
had been licking
you
had been licking
he/she/it
had been licking
we
had been licking
they
had been licking
PRESENT
I
lick
you
lick
he/she/it
licks
we
lick
they
lick
PRESENT CONTINUOUS
I
am licking
you
are licking
he/she/it
is licking
we
are licking
they
are licking
PRESENT PARTICIPLE
licking
PRESENT PERFECT
I
have licked
you
have licked
he/she/it
has licked
we
have licked
they
have licked
PRESENT PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
have been licking
you
have been licking
he/she/it
has been licking
we
have been licking
they
have been licking
PRESENT SUBJUNCTIVE
he/she/it
lick
SIMPLE PAST
I
licked
you
licked
he/she/it
licked
we
licked
they
licked
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