Licking is the act of using the tongue to touch or move across a surface. This behavior is common in many animals, including dogs and cats, as a way to explore their environment, clean themselves, or show affection. Licking can also serve as a means of communication among animals. In humans, licking can occur for various reasons, such as tasting food or soothing a sore area. It is also a common behavior in infants, who may lick objects as part of their sensory exploration. Overall, licking is a natural action that serves multiple purposes across different species.