nuzzle

[ nuhz-uhl ]

verb (used without object)

, nuz·zled, nuz·zling.

1. to burrow or root with the nose, snout, etc., as an animal does:

   a rabbit nuzzling into the snow.

2. to thrust the nose, muzzle, etc.:

   The dog nuzzled up to his master.

3. to lie very close to someone or something; cuddle or snuggle up.

verb (used with object)

, nuz·zled, nuz·zling.

1. to root up with the nose, snout, etc.:

   training pigs to nuzzle truffles from the ground.

2. to touch or rub with the nose, snout, muzzle, etc.
3. to thrust the nose, muzzle, snout, etc., against or into:

   The horse was nuzzling my pocket for sugar.

4. to thrust (the nose or head), as into something.
5. to lie very close to; cuddle or snuggle up to.

noun

1. an affectionate embrace or cuddle.

nuzzle

/ ˈnʌzəl /

verb

1. to push or rub gently against the nose or snout
2. intr to nestle; lie close
3. tr to dig out with the snout

Other Words From

• un·nuzzled adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of nuzzle¹

1375–1425; late Middle English noselen to grovel; origin uncertain

Word History and Origins

Origin of nuzzle¹

C15: nosele, from nose (n)

Example Sentences

The frightful head whipped back at the end of the long neck, to nuzzle at the seared spot.

From Project Gutenberg

Taggi came to lick his face, nuzzle him, making a small, bewildered whimpering.

From Project Gutenberg

She goes miles away by the sea-side and walks into the water, like a Christian, to nuzzle up crabs among the rocks.

From Project Gutenberg

It would be so nice just to lean back and nuzzle up to her, down in the sand.

From Project Gutenberg

The paper dropped into the ditch and lay still, and the pony began to nuzzle Janice's hand.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• caress