licking

noun

lick·​ing ˈli-kiŋ How to pronounce licking (audio)
1
: a sound thrashing : drubbing
2
: defeat

Examples of licking in a Sentence

His father threatened to give him a licking if he didn't stop misbehaving. our team took a licking last night, but we'll get them next time
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Excessive licking can result in the breakdown of the skin’s natural barriers leading to secondary yeast or bacterial infections and as such, the licking continues. Dr. Devon B. Smith, Baltimore Sun, 10 Jan. 2025 Could there be a medical reason behind their licking? Andy Biggs, Newsweek, 25 Dec. 2024 If the licking is excessive, a new behavior or accompanied by signs of illness, there could be a medical cause for this behavior. Benedict Cosgrove, Newsweek, 20 Dec. 2024 Subtle cues like stiff posture, yawning, or lip licking can also signal distress. Jason Fields, Newsweek, 5 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for licking 

Word History

First Known Use

1756, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of licking was in 1756

Dictionary Entries Near licking

Cite this Entry

“Licking.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/licking. Accessed 24 Jan. 2025.

Geographical Definition

Licking

geographical name

Lick·​ing ˈli-kiŋ How to pronounce Licking (audio)
river 320 miles (515 kilometers) long in northeastern Kentucky flowing northwest into the Ohio River

More from Merriam-Webster on licking

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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