licking

noun

lick·​ing ˈli-kiŋ 

1

: a sound thrashing : drubbing

2

: defeat

Synonyms

• beating
• defeat
• loss
• whipping
• trimming

Examples of licking in a Sentence

His father threatened to give him a licking if he didn't stop misbehaving.

our team took a licking last night, but we'll get them next time

Recent Examples on the Web

Finally, be sure to visit your veterinarian to rule out any physical causes if your dog shows signs of lethargy, spending more time in bed, persistent licking or an unwillingness to walk and play. —Liz O'Connell, MSNBC Newsweek, 10 July 2025

An angry or anxious owner may inadvertently cause stress behaviors in their pet—such as shivering, excessive licking, or destructiveness. —Lydia Patrick, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 June 2025

Rarely, excessive licking could be a sign of a medical condition known as pica, in which nonfood items are ingested. —Andy Biggs, Newsweek, 25 Dec. 2024

Relaxed licking paired with loose body language likely indicates love and contentment. —Lydia Patrick, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 June 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1756, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for licking

• clicking
• flicking
• kicking
• nicking
• picking
• pricking
• sticking
• ticking
• tricking
• wicking
• picnicking
• politicking

Geographical Definition

Licking

geographical name

Lick·​ing ˈli-kiŋ 

river 320 miles (515 kilometers) long in northeastern Kentucky flowing northwest into the Ohio River