The spelling of "licking off" can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The first sound, /l/, is a voiced alveolar lateral approximant. The second sound, /ɪ/, is a short vowel sound pronounced with the tongue in a neutral position. The third sound, /k/, is an unvoiced velar stop. The fourth sound, /ɪŋ/, is a nasalized short vowel sound followed by a velar nasal sound. The final sound, /ɒf/, is a short vowel sound followed by a labiodental fricative. Together, they create the verbal phrase "licking off."
To "lick off" refers to the action of using the tongue to remove or consume a substance from a surface, most commonly from one's own skin or body parts. This term is often used in a literal sense to describe the act of using one's tongue to clean, taste, or ingest something that has been applied on the surface of the body, such as food, condiments, lotions, or creams. It involves wetting the tongue and using it to sweep across the area where the substance is applied, effectively removing or transferring it into the mouth.
However, "licking off" can also be used figuratively, describing a metaphorical act of thoroughly eradicating or eliminating something. It implies the complete removal or eradication of an undesirable quality, habit, or situation. It signifies a determined effort or process of getting rid of something unpleasant or negative. This figurative usage is commonly associated with overcoming challenges, conquering bad habits, or triumphing over difficult circumstances.
Overall, the term "licking off" has both a literal and figurative connotation. While it primarily entails using the tongue to remove or ingest substance from a surface, it also represents the idea of eliminating or triumphing over something negative, thus emphasizing the act of thoroughly getting rid of unwanted circumstances or habits.
The phrase "licking off" is a verbal phrase derived from the verb "lick". The etymology of "lick" can be traced back to Middle English, where it was spelled "li(c)ken" and meant to use the tongue to moisten or touch something, usually in the action of cleaning or taking in a substance.
The Old English predecessor of "lick" was "liccian", which shared similar meanings. Going further back, the term can be traced to the Proto-Germanic word "likkōną" and the Proto-Indo-European root "*leyǵ-", both of which were associated with the action of licking.
As for the specific phrase "licking off", it refers to the action of using the tongue to remove or consume something. Its etymology relates to the verb "lick" in combination with the preposition "off", which indicates separation or removal.