licker-in: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Very Rare / ObsoleteHistorical / Archaic / Dialectal (chiefly UK regional)
Quick answer
What does “licker-in” mean?
A person, typically a man, who uses flattery, servile attention, or cunning persuasion to gain favour with someone, usually a superior.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A person, typically a man, who uses flattery, servile attention, or cunning persuasion to gain favour with someone, usually a superior; a toady or sycophant.
This archaic/regional term describes someone who acts obsequiously for personal gain, often by 'licking' or figuratively grovelling at the feet of a person of influence or authority. It can also imply a cunning negotiator or a persuasive agent, especially in historical contexts like livestock dealing.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The term is historically British (specifically English and Scottish dialect). It is virtually unknown and unused in contemporary American English.
Connotations
In UK historical/dialect use, it carries a rustic, somewhat humorous contempt. In modern discovery, it is seen as a curious archaism.
Frequency
Extremely rare in the UK, effectively obsolete. Not used in modern American English.
Grammar
How to Use “licker-in” in a Sentence
He was nothing but a licker-in to the landlord.They saw through the licker-in's flattery.Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used in modern business contexts. Historically, might refer to a deceitful agent.
Academic
Only found in historical texts or dialectology studies.
Everyday
Not used in contemporary everyday speech.
Technical
No technical usage.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “licker-in”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “licker-in”
- Using it as a modern synonym for 'networker' (it is pejorative).
- Confusing it with 'licker' (slang) which has different connotations.
- Using it in any contemporary formal or informal context.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is considered an archaic or dialectal term and is very rarely used in modern English.
No, it is inherently pejorative, describing someone whose behaviour is seen as shamelessly servile and insincere.
It is a compound noun.
No, the verb phrase 'to lick in' is not standard. The noun is a fixed compound from historical/regional usage.
A person, typically a man, who uses flattery, servile attention, or cunning persuasion to gain favour with someone, usually a superior.
Licker-in is usually historical / archaic / dialectal (chiefly uk regional) in register.
Licker-in: in British English it is pronounced /ˈlɪkər ɪn/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈlɪkər ɪn/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “play the licker-in”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine someone literally LICKING the INSIDE of a boss's boot to get a promotion – a 'licker-IN'.
Conceptual Metaphor
SERVILITY IS GROVELLING / GAINING FAVOUR IS CONSUMING (licking).
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary meaning of 'licker-in'?