Licked Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
licked
[lษชkt ]
Definition
past tense
Licked is the past tense of the verb 'lick', which means to move the tongue across something in order to taste, moisten, or clean it. It can also imply a gentle or affectionate action when licking a person's face or a pet.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- She licked the ice cream cone.
- The dog licked my hand.
- He licked his lips in anticipation.
- The cat licked its paws after eating.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- In some cultures, licking oneโs fingers after a meal is a sign of appreciation for the food.
- Sports teams often 'lick their wounds' to signify recovery and resilience following a defeat.
- In art, licking is sometimes depicted as a sensual or playful act, showcasing intimacy or curiosity.
Science
- Licking can be a way for animals to clean themselves, as many use their tongues to groom their fur or feathers.
- Saliva produced when licking contains enzymes which help break down food within the mouth.
- The sense of taste is closely linked to smell; licking something can enhance the flavor experience by releasing aromas.
Psychology
- The act of licking can be soothing; many people lick their lips when anxious or nervous to calm themselves.
- From a psychological perspective, the need to lick often reflects a craving for sensory stimulation or comfort.
- Children may lick objects out of curiosity to understand their texture and taste, which is critical for learning about their environment.
Origin of 'licked'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'licked' comes from the Old English 'liccian,' which means to pass the tongue over something.
- The action has been a part of human behavior for centuries, often linked to tasting and exploring textures.
- In different cultures, expressions involving licking signify enjoyment, such as savoring food or a delicious treat.
The word 'lick' originates from the Old English term 'liccian', which meant to lick or to lap. This word hails from Germanic roots, closely related to the Dutch word 'likken' and the German word 'lecken', both of which also mean to lick. The use of 'lick' in the sense of tasting or moistening something with the tongue can be traced back to early Middle Ages when it was primarily used to describe eating habits or animal behavior. The evolution of the word emphasizes its simple but essential action in daily life, reflecting innate behaviors across species that involve the use of the tongue. Its widespread usage has led to various idiomatic expressions and slang, making 'lick' a versatile term in contemporary language.