verb to pass the tongue over something, typically to taste, moisten, or clean it
In the context of cooking, licked is used to describe the action of running the tongue over a surface to taste or clean it.
In the context of sports, licked is sometimes used metaphorically to describe being defeated or outperformed by an opponent.
In the context of childcare, licked is used to describe the action of a child licking something as a form of exploration or play.
In the context of animals grooming themselves or others, licked is used to describe the action of using the tongue to clean or show affection.
In a metaphorical sense, 'licked' can be used by writers to describe overcoming a challenge or achieving success, such as 'After months of revisions, I finally licked the ending of my novel.'
Psychologists may use 'licked' in a therapeutic context to describe overcoming a personal struggle or addiction, such as 'Through counseling and support, the patient was able to lick their substance abuse problem.'
Chefs may use 'licked' to describe perfectly seasoning or flavoring a dish, such as 'I think I've finally licked the recipe for the perfect marinade.'
Athletes may use 'licked' to describe mastering a particular skill or technique, such as 'After hours of practice, I finally licked my free throw technique.'