Short answer: a yawn can just mean tired. But yawning and lip licking can also be signs that a dog feels uncomfortable. Look at the situation around them.
PDSA says it is important to consider the situation your dog is in alongside their body language. It says that when a dog is worried, they may lick their lips repeatedly or yawn, and that these are signs they feel uncomfortable and are trying to calm things down. It says a worried dog may also tuck their tail or pin their ears back.
If you see these signs, give your dog space. Stop what you are doing, move farther from what is worrying them, and do not force greetings. See dog body language and stress signs on a walk.
If your dog shows stress signs often, ask your vet and a qualified trainer.
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