Lick
/lɪk/noun
To pass the tongue over something to moisten, taste, or clean it.
Did you know?In ancient folklore, licking was often seen as a way to gain power over an object or person, linking it to magical practices and rituals.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*leik-
“To lick or to be wet.”
Old English
Old English
liccian
“To lick, to moisten with the tongue.”
Middle English
Middle English
lichen
“To lick or lap up.”
Early Modern English
Early Modern English
lick
“To move the tongue against a surface.”
Modern English
English
lick
“To pass the tongue over something.”