licking

noun

lick·​ing ˈli-kiŋ 

1

: a sound thrashing : drubbing

2

: defeat

Synonyms

• beating
• defeat
• drubbing
• loss
• lump
• overthrow
• plastering
• rout
• shellacking
• trimming
• trouncing
• whipping

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

If the licking is excessive, a new behavior or accompanied by signs of illness, there could be a medical cause for this behavior. —Benedict Cosgrove, Newsweek, 20 Dec. 2024

Subtle cues like stiff posture, yawning, or lip licking can also signal distress. —Jason Fields, Newsweek, 5 Dec. 2024

Not only do the natural ingredients promote healthier skin and fur, but the calming side effects will reduce excessive licking or scratching caused by anxiety. —Lydia Kariuki, The Mercury News, 3 Dec. 2024

The lips don’t have the same concentration of oil glands as other areas of the skin and are constantly exposed to environmental factors, such as lip licking, cosmetics, and cold weather. —Isadora Baum, Allure, 19 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1756, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Geographical Definition

Licking

geographical name

Lick·​ing ˈli-kiŋ 

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