lick

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A lick is a small amount of liquid that you take with your tongue. You can also use the word as a verb to describe the action of taking that small amount.

When we talk about licking something, it usually means using our tongues to taste or get rid of something on an object. For example, if you have a sticky candy wrapper stuck to your fingers, you might need to lick it clean. Some dogs like to lick their owners' faces as a way of showing affection. And when you're eating a lollipop, you'll use a lot of small licks to enjoy the sweet treat. People also often talk about licking wounds or injuries to help them heal faster by keeping them moist and clean.

How common is "lick"?

Word lick is considered uncommon in modern English.
It appears most frequently in fiction texts and less often in other writings.

Definitions

verb

(transitive) To stroke with the tongue.
Example: The cat licked its fur.
(transitive) To lap; to take in with the tongue.
Example: She licked the last of the honey off the spoon before washing it.
(colloquial, dated) To beat with repeated blows.
(colloquial, dated) To defeat decisively, particularly in a fight.
Example: My dad can lick your dad.
(colloquial, dated) To overcome.
Example: I think I can lick this.
(vulgar, slang) To perform cunnilingus.
(colloquial) To do anything partially.
(of flame, waves etc.) To lap.