Find Antonyms

caress Antonyms

Opposite of caress

Because the opposite of caress shifts with each meaning, the 12 antonyms and opposite words below are separated across 3 exact definitions and ranked by contrast strength.
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• verb (Context 1)

To touch or stroke gently and affectionately.

Usage Example

"She reached out to slap the soft fur of the stray kitten."

Strongest
slap
hit
strike
Strong
beat
shove
repulse

• noun (Context 2)

A gentle, affectionate touch, stroke, or embrace.

Usage Example

"The mother gave her sleeping child a gentle slap on the cheek before leaving the room."

Strongest
slap
blow
smack
Strong
strike
shove

• verb (Context 3)

To brush against or pass over gently (especially of wind, water, light, or sound).

Usage Example

"A warm evening breeze came off the ocean to lash the palm trees along the shore."

Strongest
lash
buffet
Strong
batter
pound

Similar words to caress

Words similar to caress shift depending on context. Common synonyms include:

stroke
fondle
brush
touch
pet
embrace
graze
kiss
See all synonyms of caress

• Nearby Words

carelessly
carelessness
carer
caress
caressingly
caretake
caretaker

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Antonyms for Caress. In Wordmom Thesaurus. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/antonyms/caress
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