Lick one’s chops, to - To anticipate something with obvious pleasure. The word chops (or chaps) has meant the jaws or mouth since about 1350, usually referring to the lower jaw of animals. This meaning survives in the current cliché, as well as in musicians’ slang for the embouchure of wind instruments. In jazz slang of the 1930s and 1940s, licking one’s chops meant warming up before a performance. In jazz parlance chops also came to mean ability or skill, a usage from the 1960s.
Synonyms:
- Eager anticipation
- Rub one’s hands
- Await with bated breath
Antonyms:
- Dread
- Apprehension
Related and Similar Terms:
- Butterflies in the stomach: Feeling nervous anticipation.
Humor-filled Quotes:
“Ooh, Michael’s licking his chops! Is the ice cream truck nearby or did they announce a surprise quiz?” 😆
Proverbs:
“There is no better relish than anticipation.”
References in Literature:
- “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald (1925): Gatsby often seems to lick his chops at the thought of reuniting with Daisy.
- “Oliver Twist” by Charles Dickens (1837): Oliver might not literally lick his chops, but he certainly eagerly anticipates his next meal.
Songs:
- 🎶 “Anticipation” by Carly Simon: A perfect tune to capture the essence of awaiting something joyfully.
Movies:
- “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” (2005): Charlie definitely licked his chops envisioning all the sweetness inside Willy Wonka’s factory.
Farewell, dear reader! Whether you’re licking your chops over your next meal or the next thrilling adventure, remember: Anticipation is half the joy. Until next time, stay curious and let the words whet your appetite for knowledge! 🌟
