v. phr. , informal To think about something pleasant; enjoy the thought of something. John is licking his chops about the steak dinner tonight. Tom is licking his chops about the lifeguard job he will have at the beach next summer. Our team is licking its chops because we beat the champions last night. (From the fact that some animals lick their mouths when they expect to be fed or when they see food, and after eating.)
Compare: LOOK FORWARD TO, MAKE ONE'S MOUTH WATER.