Lick (one's) wounds In english explanation

The meaning, explanation, definition and origin of the idiom/phrase "lick (one's) wounds", English Idiom Dictionary ( also found in Vietnamese )

author Tonia Thai calendar 2022-02-24 09:02

Meaning of Lick (one's) wounds

Lick (one's) wounds American British verb phrase

If you say that you lick your wounds, you mean that you temporarily withdraw to recover from a failure or a scolding.
 

I lick my wounds in my room after getting criticism from my teacher.

I licked my wounds after knowing that my experiment was considered a dismal failure at the contest.

Jane licks his wounds for failing to do his duty.

Other phrases about:

nurse (someone or something) back to health

To take care of someone or something until they are healthy again.

Grammar and Usage of Lick (one's) wounds

Verb Forms

  • lick (one's) wounds
  • licks (one's) wounds
  • licked (one's) wounds
  • licking (one's) wounds

The verb "lick" should be conjugated according to its tense.

Origin of Lick (one's) wounds

This expression alludes to an animal's behavior when wounded. It dated back to the mid-1500s.

error

Report Error

Do you see anything wrong?

Share your idioms

If you are really thankful, what do you do? You share.

Submit An Idiom

Make a Donation!

Help us update and complete more idioms

Donate

TODAY
have two left feet
To make awkward and clumsy movements while dancing, running or playing sport
Example: I tried my best to dance but I have two left feet.
Join the Newsletter

Subscribe to our newsletter to get the latest updates!

Darkmode