Licking

The act of passing the tongue over a surface or object. This can serve multiple purposes, including tasting, cleaning, grooming, showing affection, or in some cases, causing damage. The intensity and context significantly influence the meaning; a gentle lick conveys affection while a forceful lick might indicate aggression or a desire for something. It's a primal behavior found in many animals, often linked to sensory exploration and social bonding. Humans also engage in licking, though often in more nuanced situations and usually more rarely than animals.

Licking meaning with examples

• The puppy, overwhelmed with joy, was constantly licking my hand, a clear expression of affection and excitement after my arrival home. I could tell by how gently his tongue grazed over my skin, a soothing and loving gesture. It was the welcome I needed, a moment of unconditional love, communicated without words, pure and simple.
• After dropping my ice cream cone, the child, despite his tears, couldn't resist licking the sugary mess from the pavement. It was a mixture of sadness and enjoyment, a primal need to savor the last remnants. His face, covered in chocolate, told a story of delight and a sense of loss all mixed together.
• The cat spent a considerable amount of time licking its paws and fur, a ritual of self-grooming that ensured its coat remained pristine. It meticulously cleaned every strand of fur, leaving it soft and smooth, and took great pride in its cleanliness. This was part of its daily routine, essential for comfort.
• The old dog, showing signs of anxiety, began licking his front paws excessively, a behavior the vet suggested was related to stress or possibly a skin irritation. This repetitive action, the rough feel of his tongue and the way he focused intently on the task, worried me. We made an appointment with the vet to get it sorted.