lick into shape

Idioms and Phrases

Also, whip into shape . Bring into satisfactory condition or appearance, as in The garden looks neglected, but Dad will soon lick it into shape , or We need at least three more practices before the team is whipped into shape . The expression using lick , which some think alludes to how bears treat their cubs, dates from about 1600. The variant alludes to the forceful use of a whip to accomplish something.

Related Words

• construct
• coordinate
• create
• establish
• form
• formulate
• regulate
• run
• set up