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Licker Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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licker

[ˈlɪkər ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

informal

A person or animal that licks something.

Synonyms

lapper, lapper-upper.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
licker

Repeated due to typo; same context as above.

  • The licker's enthusiasm was evident as the dog greeted her owner.
  • He's a licker of envelopes, always volunteering to help with the mailing.
lapper

Commonly refers to an animal that laps up water or liquid using its tongue. Normally not used for humans. Often observed in the description of pets or wildlife.

  • The cat is a neat lapper, making hardly any sound as it drinks.
  • Out in the wild, the deer is a gentle lapper at the edge of the stream.
lapper-upper

This term is rarely used and can sound awkward. It typically describes someone or something that enthusiastically consumes or enjoys something, often quickly or voraciously.

  • At the party, he was the lapper-upper of all the compliments, basking in the attention.
  • When it comes to new information, she's a lapper-upper, always eager to learn more.

Examples of usage

  • He was known as the licker of the group, always licking his fingers after a meal.
  • The licker dog wagged his tail happily as he licked his owner's face.
Context #2 | Noun

slang

A person who is overly eager or interested in something.

Synonyms

devotee, enthusiast, fanatic.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
licker

Used in a negative sense to describe someone who excessively flatters or shows ridiculous levels of devotion to someone else, often for personal gain.

  • Everyone at the office knew John was just the boss's licker, always agreeing with her no matter what she said
enthusiast

Neutral term for a person who is very interested in and passionate about a specific activity or subject.

  • Mark is a car enthusiast who spends weekends working on his vintage models
fanatic

Usually used in a negative or extreme context to describe someone with intense, unwavering zeal or support for a specific cause, often to the point of irrationality.

  • His friends were worried because he had become a fitness fanatic, working out multiple times a day and following extreme diets
devotee

Appropriate for describing someone who is dedicated to a particular person, activity, or cause. It conveys a sense of respect and admiration.

  • She's a devoted yoga devotee, practicing every morning without fail

Examples of usage

  • She's a real licker for fashion, always following the latest trends.
  • Don't be such a licker for compliments, learn to appreciate yourself.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Animal Behavior

  • Many animals, like dogs and cats, lick for various reasons, including grooming, tasting, or showing affection.
  • In some species, licking is a social behavior, helping to bond or communicate with others.

Pop Culture

  • In popular media, 'licker' is used humorously to describe someone who enjoys ice cream or candy a bit too much.
  • The word has appeared in various song lyrics, adding a playful twist to the context of taste and flavor.

Psychology

  • The act of licking can be associated with comfort, as some small children suck their thumbs or lick objects to feel relaxed.
  • It’s also linked to exploration, as many young animals explore their environment using their tongues.

Culinary Use

  • In cooking terminology, a 'licker' may refer to someone who enjoys sampling and tasting food during preparation.
  • Certain recipes, especially desserts, encourage tasting with the tongue, emphasizing the importance of flavor.

Origin of 'licker'

Main points about word origin

  • The word originates from the Old English 'liccian,' which meant to lick or lap up.
  • It has been used in the English language since at least the 15th century, relating to the action of tasting or moistening with the tongue.

The word 'licker' originated from the Middle English word 'likour', which means one who licks. It has been used in English language for centuries to describe both literal and figurative actions of licking. Over time, the slang use of 'licker' to refer to someone enthusiastic or eager about something has evolved, reflecting the diverse nature of language development.

See also: lick, licks.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,419, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.