"Lick" Definition

Definitions for the word "Lick" from multiple English dictionaries.

1. v. t.
To draw or pass the tongue over; as, a dog licks his master's hand.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
2. v. t.
To lap; to take in with the tongue; as, a dog or cat licks milk.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
3. v.
A stroke of the tongue in licking.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
4. v.
A quick and careless application of anything, as if by a stroke of the tongue, or of something which acts like a tongue; as, to put on colors with a lick of the brush. Also, a small quantity of any substance so applied.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
5. v.
A place where salt is found on the surface of the earth, to which wild animals resort to lick it up; -- often, but not always, near salt springs.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
6. v. t.
To strike with repeated blows for punishment; to flog; to whip or conquer, as in a pugilistic encounter.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
7. n.
A slap; a quick stroke.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
8. v.
1 pass the tongue over. 2 bring into a specified condition by licking (licked it all up; licked it clean). 3 (of a flame etc.) Play lightly over. 4 colloq. Defeat. 5 colloq. Thrash. n. 1 act of licking with the tongue. 2 colloq. Fast pace (at a lick). 3 smart blow. lick a person''s boots be servile. Lick into shape make presentable or efficient. Lick one''s lips (or chops) look forward with relish. Lick one''s wounds be in retirement regaining strength etc. After defeat. [old english]
Source: Oxford English Dictionary, 1884
9. slang
a blow; LICKING, a beating; “to put in big LICKS,” a curious and common phrase, meaning that great exertions are being made.—_Dryden_; _North_.
Source: The Slang Dictionary, 1864
10. slang
to excel, or overcome; “if you ain’t sharp, he’ll LICK you,” _i.e._, be finished first. Signifies, also, to whip, chastise, or conquer. _Ancient cant_, LYCKE. _Welsh_, LLACHIO, to strike.
Source: The Slang Dictionary, 1864

Dictionary entries nearby:

Additional Info
This page provides a list of definitions and meanings for "Lick" from various historical English dictionaries. By displaying multiple definitions, you can compare and contrast different meanings and nuances of a word, phrase, or slang. You can also see the changes in meaning of "Lick" over time by viewing the definitions from different dictionaries published at different times in history. The page also includes other information to help users expand their vocabulary and understand the context of the word.

Important Notes
The definitions for words, phrases and slang (such as "Lick") in this dictionary are sourced from multiple sources - including sources historical in nature. The sources may contain outdated, inaccurate or even offensive information when viewed from a modern context. It is important to consider the date the dictionary was published and view such content from a historical perspective and consider that the meanings, interpretations and usage of words may have evolved over time. Users should cross-reference this information with contemporary sources for a more complete understanding.

This website is not affiliated with or endorsed by any brands mentioned on the page. Trademarks and logos are the property of their respective owners and are used for identification purposes only.