lick Definition
- 1pass the tongue over (something), typically in order to taste, moisten, or clean it
- 2(of a flame, wave, or breeze) move lightly and quickly like a tongue
- 3(informal) defeat (someone) comprehensively
Using lick: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "lick" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The dog licked my hand.
Example
She licked the spoon clean.
Example
The flames licked at the curtains.
Example
Our team got licked in the final match.
Example
He licked the competition and won the championship.
lick Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with lick
Example
Our team gave them a good licking in the last game of the season.
lick one's wounds
recover from a defeat or setback
Example
After losing the election, he went home to lick his wounds and plan his next move.
Example
She gave the kitchen a quick lick and a promise before rushing out the door.
Origins of lick
Old English 'liccian'
Summary: lick in Brief
The verb 'lick' [lɪk] means to pass the tongue over something, often to taste, moisten, or clean it. It can also describe a flame, wave, or breeze that moves lightly and quickly. Informally, 'lick' can mean to defeat someone comprehensively. Common phrases include 'give someone a licking,' meaning to defeat someone thoroughly, and 'lick one's wounds,' meaning to recover from a defeat or setback.
