lick

[[t]lɪk[/t]]

v. t.

1) phl to pass the tongue over the surface of, as to moisten, taste, or eat (often fol. by up, off, from, etc.):

to lick a postage stamp; to lick an ice-cream cone[/ex]

2) to make, or cause to become, by stroking with the tongue:

to lick a spoon clean[/ex]

3) (of waves, flames, etc.) to pass or play lightly over

4) inf Informal.

a) to hit or beat, esp. as a punishment; thrash; whip

b) to overcome or defeat, as in a fight, game, or contest

5) to move quickly or lightly

6) a stroke of the tongue over something

7) as much as can be taken up by one stroke of the tongue

8) salt lick

9) inf Informal.

a) a blow

b) a brief, brisk burst of activity or energy

c) a quick pace or clip; speed

d) a small amount:

I haven't done a lick of work all week[/ex]

10) cvb Usu., licks. a critical or complaining remark

11) mad Usu., licks. a musical phrase, as by a jazz soloist in improvising

•

- last licks lick into shape lick one's wounds

Etymology: bef. 1000; ME; OE liccian, c. OS liccōn, OHG leckōn lick′er, n.