cuddle
cuddle Lexical Profile
cuddle Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A prolonged, affectionate hug or embrace in which two people or animals hold each other close.
"The tired toddler climbed onto her mother's lap for a warm cuddle before bedtime."
• verb
To hold someone or something closely in one's arms as a way of showing love, warmth, or affection.
"She sat in the rocking chair to cuddle the newborn baby until he fell asleep."
To lie or sit close and comfortably together; to nestle or snuggle.
"The kittens liked to cuddle together in the basket to stay warm through the night."
Word Nuance & Usage
Do not confuse 'cuddle' (to hold closely for warmth or affection) with 'coddle' (to pamper or treat in an overprotective way).
• Rhymes for cuddle
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
First recorded in the early 16th century, possibly a frequentative formation related to Middle English 'couren' (to crouch) or dialectal 'cull' (to hug or embrace).