licking

[ˈlɪkɪŋ]

licking Definition

  • 1the action of passing the tongue over a surface, typically to taste, moisten, or clean it
  • 2a defeat in a contest or conflict

Using licking: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "licking" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The dog was licking his paw.

  • Example

    She gave the envelope a quick lick before sealing it.

  • Example

    The team suffered a licking in the championship game.

licking Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for licking

Antonyms for licking

Phrases with licking

  • to be defeated or beaten

    Example

    We got a licking from the opposing team.

  • to defeat or beat someone

    Example

    Our team gave them a licking in the last game.

  • licking one's wounds

    to recover from a defeat or setback

    Example

    After losing the election, he spent some time licking his wounds before returning to politics.

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Summary: licking in Brief

The term 'licking' [ˈlɪkɪŋ] refers to the action of passing the tongue over a surface, often to taste, moisten, or clean it. It can also mean a defeat in a contest or conflict, as in 'The team suffered a licking in the championship game.' Other phrases include 'get a licking,' meaning to be defeated, and 'licking one's wounds,' meaning to recover from a defeat or setback.

How do native speakers use this expression?