I'm going to lick you!

Posted by ESC on August 21, 2004

In Reply to: I'm going to lick you! posted by Smokey Stover 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

: I beg your pardon, (and that of the OED) I meant 1678. SS

I'll do some research and see what I can find. I do recall on some animal channel seeing a lion lick a dead deer and the narrator said that was common. Creepy and strange.

• I'm going to lick you! Lotg (OZ) 22/August/04
  • I'm going to lick you! James Briggs 22/August/04