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Definition of nuzzle

nuzzle

/ˈnʌz.əl/
nuz · zle
Plural:nuzzles
•
Past Simple:nuzzled
•
Past Participle:nuzzled
•
Present Participle:nuzzling
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nuzzle Lexical Profile

nuzzle Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To rub or push against gently with the nose or snout, especially as a sign of affection.

Example

"The newborn calf began to nuzzle its mother in search of milk."

2

To nestle, snuggle, or lie closely and comfortably against someone or something.

Example

"The sleepy child nuzzled into the warm blanket as the rain tapped against the window."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• noun

1

An affectionate push or rub made with the nose or snout.

Example

"The horse greeted its trainer with a gentle nuzzle against her shoulder."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for nuzzle

• Rhymes for nuzzle

• Nearby Words

nutter
nuttiness
nutty
nuzzle
nyah
nyala
nyamuragira

Word Origin & Etymology

First recorded in the early 16th century, "nuzzle" is a frequentative formation derived from the noun "nose" (from Old English nosu) combined with the suffix "-le," originally meaning to root or burrow in the ground with the snout.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

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