lick
UK[lɪk]US[lɪk]
v
To move the tongue over the surface of something.
v
(informal) To defeat easily or comprehensively.
n
An act of licking with the tongue.
n
(informal) A small amount or quick application of something.
Etymology
The word 'lick' originates from the Old English 'liccian', a verb of Germanic descent. It is considered a primary, sound-imitative formation, likely echoing the action it describes, a trait common in many basic verbs across languages. This root is shared with other Germanic languages, such as Old High German 'lecchōn' and Dutch 'likken'. From its core, concrete meaning of passing the tongue over a surface, the word's usage expanded metaphorically, giving rise to informal senses like defeating an opponent or applying something lightly, capturing the swift, covering motion implied by the original action.
Analysis
This is a simplex word of Old English origin. The root is an onomatopoeic or sound-symbolic formation imitating the action or sound of licking.
Examples
The child started to lick the ice cream cone happily.
Our team is going to lick theirs in the final match.
He gave the stamp a quick lick before sticking it on the envelope.