canoodle

American  

[kuh-nood-l] / kəˈnud l /

verb (used with or without object)

Slang.

canoodled, canoodling

1. to caress, fondle, or pet amorously.

---

canoodle British  

/ kəˈnuːdəl /

verb

1. slang to kiss and cuddle; pet; fondle

---

Other Word Forms

• canoodler
  noun

Etymology

Origin of canoodle

1855–60; perhaps ca(ress) + noodle ²

Explanation

To canoodle is to embrace and fondle. Romantic couples canoodle. When people are getting a little physical romantically, they're canoodling. This somewhat silly-sounding word applies to somewhat innocent physical affection. For some reason, this word is used frequently by celebrity reporters who love to write about who a hunky actor or sultry starlet is canoodling with at a cafe. However, anyone can canoodle as long as you have a date.

Example Sentences

At times in “Hamnet,” 1582, the year of their marriage, could pass for a millennium earlier, a rustic era where neither has anything more pressing to do than canoodle under the trees.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 25, 2025

It wasn’t the Poconos’ fault people would rather backpack through Europe than canoodle in a heart-shaped hot tub in Pennsylvania.

From Washington Post • Dec. 1, 2022

There are long chapters that recount Trump’s tumultuous relationships with his wives and girlfriends—their every known canoodle, falling-out, and prenup negotiation tactic reported in rubbernecking detail.

From Slate • Oct. 31, 2019

You’d canoodle with dumplings and spring rolls and sushi; and then, just as you were getting warmed up for a deeper commitment, the check would appear.

From New York Times • Mar. 31, 2015

Final Date With Josh: For their final date, Josh and Andi canoodle on a cruise around the Dominican Republic and Andi uses her law degree to grill Josh about what he said to her family.

From Time • Jul. 29, 2014