lick one's chops

phrase

: to feel or show eager anticipation

Word History

First Known Use

1805, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of lick one's chops was in 1805

Rhymes for lick one's chops

See All Rhymes for lick one's chops

Browse Nearby Words

lick-log
lick one's chops
lick one's lips
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Lick one's chops.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lick%20one%27s%20chops. Accessed 25 Aug. 2026.

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Last Updated: - Definition revised
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