Explore the origins, meanings, and cultural relevance of the phrase 'lick one’s chops' in language and jazz slang.
To anticipate something with evident pleasure or eagerness. The phrase is often used to describe a person’s visible excitement or anticipation for an upcoming event or opportunity.
The term “chops” has been used to refer to the jaws or mouth since approximately 1350, primarily in reference to the lower jaw of animals. This anatomical reference has persisted into modern usage, encapsulated within the phrase “lick one’s chops.” The idiom itself evolved from this original meaning, signifying the act of preparing or readying oneself, often with relish, for something desirable.
In the 1930s and 1940s, the phrase gained particular prominence within jazz circles, where “licking one’s chops” referred to musicians warming up before a performance. This usage highlights the anticipatory nature of the phrase, as musicians prepared with enthusiasm for their upcoming sets. By the 1960s, “chops” had further evolved in jazz slang to denote a musician’s ability or skill, underscoring the phrase’s association with readiness and proficiency.
The phrase “lick one’s chops” conveys a dual sense of anticipation and readiness. It is employed to depict scenarios where individuals express eagerness or excitement, often in a manner that is palpable or visible. The idiom implies a positive expectation, often associated with pleasure or satisfaction derived from the anticipated event.
In contemporary culture, “lick one’s chops” is commonly used in both casual and formal discourse to describe scenarios involving eager anticipation. It appears frequently in literature and media to depict characters or individuals who are visibly excited about a forthcoming event. The phrase’s roots in jazz slang also lend it a cultural richness, connecting it to the vibrant history of American music.
In professional settings, “lick one’s chops” may be used to describe anticipation for a business opportunity or project. Socially, it often conveys excitement for personal events or gatherings. In literary contexts, it can illustrate a character’s eager anticipation of a significant plot development.
The phrase “lick one’s chops” remains relevant in contemporary discourse, particularly due to its vivid imagery and historical richness. Its usage spans various contexts, ensuring its continued presence in language. Durability: ★★★★☆
“In the meantime, I was licking my chops at the prospect of a long and fruitful acquaintance with the delightful Miss Smith.” - P. G. Wodehouse, The Adventures of Sally (1922)
“The musicians were licking their chops, ready to bring the house down with their next number.” - Jazz Times (1970s)