Search Dictionary
Definition of fondle

fondle

/ˈfɑːndəl/
fon · dle
Adverb:fondlingly
•
Plural:fondles
•
Past Simple:fondled
•
Past Participle:fondled
•
Present Participle:fondling
JUMP TO:

fondle Lexical Profile

fondle Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To stroke, caress, or handle someone or something lovingly, affectionately, or erotically.

Example

"The collector stood by the display case to fondle the antique watch he had just acquired."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for fondle

• noun

1

An act of stroking, caressing, or touching someone or something lovingly or erotically.

Example

"She gave the puppy's ears a gentle fondle before heading out the door."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for fondle

Word Nuance & Usage

While 'fondle' historically referred to any affectionate caress or gentle handling of an object, in modern usage it frequently carries sexual or inappropriate connotations when applied to people, whereas 'caress' or 'stroke' remains more neutral or romantic.

• Rhymes for fondle

• Nearby Words

fomo
fond
fondant
fondle
fondly
fondness
fondue

Word Origin & Etymology

First recorded in the late 17th century, formed from the obsolete verb 'fond' (meaning to dote upon or caress) combined with the frequentative suffix '-le', or possibly as a back-formation from the adjective 'fondling'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Fondle. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/fondle
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.