fondle
verb (used with object)
to handle or touch lovingly, affectionately, or tenderly; caress.
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Some are fondling small dogs; and a number of large ones, with a whole tribe of amicable cats, are picking bones.
From The Hawaiian Archipelago by Isabella L. (Isabella Lucy) Bird