lick

lick · verb

imported

Definitions

verb

  1. 1.

    An act of licking with the tongue.

  2. 2.

    To pass the tongue over something, typically to taste, moisten, or clean it.

  3. 3.

    A small amount or quick application of something.

  4. 4.

    (Of flames, waves, etc.) To move lightly over or touch.

  5. 5.

    (Informal) To defeat decisively.

  6. 6.

    (Informal) A brief or hasty effort.

  7. 7.

    (Music) A short phrase or solo, especially in jazz or rock.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    lick one's lips — to anticipate something with pleasure
  • •
    lick one's wounds — to recover after a defeat
  • •
    a lick and a promise — a hasty, superficial cleaning
  • •
    lick into shape — to bring into proper condition through effort

Related words

See also: licked, licking, taste, tongue
Synonyms: lap, taste

Etymology

From Old English liccian ("to lick"), from Proto-Germanic likkōną. Related to German lecken and Dutch likken.