A small amount or quick application of something, especially a liquid. He added a lick of paint to the old chair to make it look new.
A rapid movement of the tongue over something. The dog gave his owner's face a quick lick.
A short musical phrase or riff, especially in jazz or rock music. The guitarist played a catchy lick that got the crowd cheering.
A place where animals, especially cattle, go to lick salt or other minerals from the ground. The farmer led the herd to the salt lick in the pasture.
A hard blow or hit, especially a punch (chiefly North American, informal). He took a lick to the jaw but managed to stay on his feet.
To pass the tongue over a surface, typically to taste, moisten, or clean it. The cat began to lick its paws after finishing its meal.
To defeat someone comprehensively in a contest or competition. The home team managed to lick their rivals in the final match.
To overcome or solve a problem or challenge. After weeks of hard work, the engineers finally licked the issue with the software.
Of flames, waves, or a similar moving thing, to pass lightly over or against (a surface). Orange flames licked at the curtains as the fire grew.