■ verb
1》 pass the tongue over (something) in order to taste, moisten, or clean it.
2》 move lightly and quickly like a tongue: the flames ~ed around the wood.
3》 informal defeat comprehensively.
↘ N. Amer. overcome (a difficulty).
■ noun
1》 an act of ~ing.
2》 informal a small amount or quick application of something: a ~ of paint.
3》 informal a short phrase or solo in jazz or popular music.
4》 informal a smart blow.
Phrases
at a ~ informal at a fast pace.
a ~ and a promise informal a hasty wash.
~ someone's boots (or vulgar slang arse ) be excessively obsequious towards someone.
Derivatives
-~er noun
~ing noun
Origin
OE liccian , of W. Gmc origin.