1 B2 idiomatic informal
To speak rudely or impertinently to someone, especially someone in a position of authority.
"Don't lip off to the referee, or you'll be sent off the field."
inseparable
lip off
B2 informal inseparable intransitive
To speak rudely, impudently, or disrespectfully to someone, especially to a person in authority.
In plain English
To speak rudely or cheekily to someone, especially a boss, parent, or teacher.
What does "lip off" mean?
One main meaning — here's how to use it.
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To let one's lips run (speak) off in a rude direction.
Actually means
To speak rudely or cheekily to someone, especially a boss, parent, or teacher.
Usage tip
Chiefly North American informal speech. Often used in the context of a young person being rude to an adult, or an employee to a manager. Can also refer to boastful or bragging talk. Less commonly used than 'mouth off'.
Words that pair with "lip off"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
boss teacher parent police authority crowd
How to conjugate "lip off"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
lip off
I/you/we/they
3rd person
lips off
he/she/it
Past simple
liped off
yesterday
Past participle
liped off
have + pp
-ing form
liping off
continuous
Hear "lip off" in the wild
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Other ways to say "lip off"
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