Lick up Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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lick up

[lɪk ʌp ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

action

To pass the tongue over something.

Synonyms

consume, lap up, scoop up.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
lick up	This phrase is used to describe an action where someone or something uses their tongue to eat or clean a substance from a surface. It can also have a negative connotation when referring to people who overly flatter others. The cat licked up the spilled milk He licked up every bit of the remaining sauce They licked up his compliments, not realizing he was insincere
lap up	Similar to 'lick up,' this phrase describes an animal using its tongue to drink or eat, usually from a flat surface or container. It can also be used to describe someone eagerly accepting praise or attention. The dog lapped up water from its bowl She lapped up the attention from her fans He lapped up every word of the praise he received
scoop up	This term is used to describe the action of picking up something with a scooping motion, often with a spoon or similar tool. It can also describe quickly collecting a group of items. She scooped up some ice cream He scooped up the toys from the floor They scooped up the coins that had fallen
consume	This word is best used when talking about eating or drinking something in a general sense. It can also be used metaphorically, like consuming media or resources. She consumed her meal quickly He consumes a lot of books every month They consume a lot of energy

Examples of usage

He licked up the spilled milk from the floor.
The dog licked up the crumbs from the table.
She licked up the ice cream before it melted.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

informal

To enthusiastically enjoy or appreciate something.

Synonyms

enjoy, relish, savor.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
lick up	Use this phrase in an informal or casual setting when describing someone or something eagerly consuming a liquid or food. It can also be used metaphorically for someone enjoying praise or attention. The dog licked up the spilled milk from the floor. She licked up all the compliments she received during the meeting.
enjoy	This is a general term that can be used in almost any context where someone is taking pleasure in an activity. It is neutral and versatile. I really enjoy reading books in my free time. They enjoyed the concert last night.
savor	Use this word when someone is enjoying something slowly and deliberately, often food or an experience. It emphasizes taking time to fully appreciate the details. He took a moment to savor the rich flavor of the wine. They savored every minute of their vacation.
relish	This word is often used when someone takes great pleasure in something, especially when it's anticipated or savored deeply. It has a positive connotation and suggests a deeper level of enjoyment. He relished the opportunity to travel to new countries. She relished the taste of the exotic dish.

Examples of usage

She really licked up the new book.
He licked up the opportunity to travel to Europe.
They licked up the delicious meal.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Culinary Culture

In some cultures, licking plates or bowls is seen as a sign of appreciation for the meal, emphasizing savoring every flavor.
Certain cuisines celebrate licking fingers or plates, reflecting a deep-seated tradition of enjoying food without waste.
Licking ice cream cones is a common practice to prevent drips, making it an endearing part of summer enjoyment.

Psychology

Licking is often associated with comfort and nostalgia, reminding people of childhood treats and carefree moments.
Researchers suggest that licking food can enhance flavor perception, as the tongue helps release aromas.
The action may evoke a sense of playfulness, connecting to primal behaviors in many mammals, including humans.

Animal Behavior

Animals, especially carnivores, often lick their wounds as a way to clean injuries and promote healing.
Licking is a common grooming behavior in pets, which helps them bond with their owners and maintain hygiene.
Some species use licking to communicate affection or submission within their social structures.

Literature

In literary works, licking often symbolizes longing or desire, as seen in poetry where characters yearn for lost pleasures.
Classic novels sometimes liken love to the act of savoring, using licking as a metaphor for intimacy and connection.
The phrase appears in various idiomatic expressions, often conveying themes of consumption and indulgence.

Origin of 'lick up'

Main points about word origin

The phrase 'lick up' combines 'lick,' which comes from Old English 'liccian,' meaning to touch or moisten with the tongue.
The word 'lick' has evolved over centuries, with its roots tracing back to Proto-Germanic and further to Proto-Indo-European languages.
In early uses, it also denoted the act of cleaning or applying a salve, showing its practical applications.

The origin of the phrase 'lick up' can be traced back to Old English, where 'liccian' meant 'to lick'. Over time, the phrase evolved to include the idea of enthusiastically enjoying something. The modern usage of 'lick up' reflects both the literal act of licking and the figurative sense of appreciating or consuming something with great enthusiasm.