transitive verb

1. to pass the tongue over to lick one's lips
2. to bring into a certain condition by passing the tongue over to lick one's fingers clean
3. to pass lightly over like a tongue flames licking the logs
4. Informal
   1. to whip; thrash
   2. to overcome, vanquish, or control

Etymology: ME licken < OE liccian, akin to Ger lecken < IE base *leih-, to lick > Gr leichein, L ligurrire, to lick, lingere, to lick up

intransitive verb

noun

1. the act of licking with the tongue
2. a small quantity
3. salt lick
4. Informal
   1. a sharp blow
   2. a short, rapid burst of activity, often careless, as in cleaning up, etc.
      also lick and a promise
   3. a fast pace; spurt of speed; clip
5. ☆ Slang a phrase of jazz music, esp. an interpolated improvisation
6. Slang chance; turn to get one's licks in