What does it mean when a cat licks your hand?

A cat licking your hand is a sign of affection; the cat may want you to pet or hold it and play more. In addition, if the cat is hungry or your hand smells of food, it will actively lick your hand; in that case, check whether the food bowl is empty and add some kibble.

Besides that, a cat licking your hand may simply be leaving its scent on you, marking you as its own special owner to claim you from other cats, while also learning from your hand’s scent where you went and what animals you contacted today.