likin

[ lee-keen ]

noun

1. (formerly in China) a provincial duty imposed on articles of trade that are in transit.

Word History and Origins

Origin of likin¹

1875–80; < earlier or dialectal Chinese, for Chinese líjīn ( lí .001 ounce + jīn money)

Example Sentences

Nevertheless, likin' is a tender plant, and never thrives long when watered with tears.

From Project Gutenberg

First we knew a British vessel overhauled us, and, not likin' th' looks of things, began to ask questions.

From Project Gutenberg

Dey wuz a kinda noise goin' on by de ba'n, but Lijah, he ain't got no likin' fo' to get up an' see wat's de mattah.

From Project Gutenberg

I am likin' little dogs mit brown eyes, what walks by their legs und carries things by their mouths.

From Project Gutenberg

They can't nobody help likin' him, he's so nice; but ever'body laughs at him, he says sich blunderin' things sometimes.

From Project Gutenberg