lickety-split

Definition

Quickly; as fast as possible; in short order.

Etymology

First attested during the 19th century, in the US, equivalent to lickedy + split, perhaps as a reference to the flick or darting of a snake's forked tongue. The forms lickety-cut and licketie are similarly attested; and forms with t are likely due to Scottish influence.

Example Sentences

• "At the sound of the starting gun, they were off and running lickety-split."
• "I need tea right now, lickety-split."
• "For quotations using this term, see Citations:lickety."