Lick: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when a person or animal runs their tongue over something lightly.

• The cat likes to lick its fur
• She gave her ice cream a big lick

Used when someone tries a small amount of food or drink to experience its flavor.

• Would you like to taste this new dish? She tasted the soup to see if it needed more salt

Often used when an animal drinks a liquid by using its tongue repeatedly.

• The dog will lap up the water quickly
• A kitten will lap milk from a bowl

Implies thorough licking, often used for liquids or small particles, sometimes has a negative connotation.

• The puppy licked up the spilt milk from the floor
• He had to lick up every drop of the medicine

Used when referring to touching something lightly with the tongue.

• She gave the ice cream a quick lick.
• The cat licked its paw.

Refers to drinking in small amounts, often in a careful or slow manner.

• He took a small sip of his tea.
• She sipped her coffee while reading the book.

Implies drinking in large gulps, often in a casual or informal manner.

• He took a swig of water after his workout.
• She swigged from the bottle, not bothering with a glass.

Refers to trying food or drink to check its flavor.

• She tasted the soup to see if it needed more salt.
• He tasted the wine before serving it to his guests.