lick (one's) wounds

To withdraw after a misstep or defeat in order to recover. I think the senator will be licking his wounds for a while after that disastrous debate performance.

See also: lick, wound

lick your wounds

COMMON If someone licks their wounds, they feel embarrassed and disappointed, especially after being defeated very easily. England's cricketers are licking their wounds after being soundly defeated in the second Test against Australia at Melbourne. Note: Some animals, such as dogs and cats, lick their wounds when they are injured.

See also: lick, wound

Collins COBUILD Idioms Dictionary, 3rd ed. © HarperCollins Publishers 2012

lick your wounds

retire to recover your strength or confidence after a defeat or humiliating experience.

See also: lick, wound

Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017

lick your ˈwounds

spend time trying to get your strength and confidence back after a defeat or disappointment: ‘He heard this morning that he hasn’t got the job.’ ‘Where is he?’ ‘Licking his wounds somewhere, probably.’

See also: lick, wound

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