Posted by Smokey Stover on August 21, 2004
In Reply to: I'm going to lick you! posted by Acme on August 21, 2004
: Stranmge that an expression using an oral term like this would mean an intent to do someone harm. When did 'lick' take on a meaning of agressiveness.
I've never heard this exact phrase, but "to lick" meaning to beat or thrash was seen in print no later than 1535 (OED). A "lick" meaning a "smart blow," 16768. To give someone a licking (i.e., a thrashing), 1856. SS