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Definition of dandle

dandle

/ˈdæn.dəl/
dan · dle
Past Simple:dandled
•
Past Participle:dandled
•
Present Participle:dandling
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dandle Lexical Profile

dandle Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To move or bounce a baby or young child lightly up and down on one's knees or in one's arms in a playful or affectionate manner.

Example

"The grandfather smiled warmly as he dandled the giggling toddler on his knee."

2

To pamper, pet, or spoil someone with excessive fondness or indulgence.

Example

"Raised in luxury, the young heir had been dandled by servants and flatterers from infancy."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for dandle

• Nearby Words

dande
dandelion
dander
dandle
dandruff
dandruffy
dandy

Word Origin & Etymology

First recorded in the early 16th century, likely of Germanic or symbolic origin; compare Middle Low German dantelen ('to trifle') and Italian dondolare ('to swing or rock').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Dandle. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/dandle
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