coddle
verb (used with object)
to treat tenderly; nurse or tend indulgently; pamper.
coddles
-
present tense formof coddle (3rd person singular).present tense
Used to describe things happening now or regularly.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
A ballroom dancer who coddles his pet rats—Fred and Ginger—Declan rides a moped that his colleague, Sara Xiu, describes as “that pitiful hair-dryer on wheels.”
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 13, 2026
In Zimmerman’s final pick, Rose’s mother visits and friction ensues when Rose coddles her too much.
From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 11, 2025
This boundary is crossed when your brother coddles his child while punishing yours.
From Washington Post ● Nov. 9, 2021
In an interview with USA Today, Montana spoke on the lack of mental preparation that QB’s are entering the League with — suggesting contemporary college football’s coaching as a system that coddles its play-callers.
From Fox News ● Oct. 8, 2021
“Shall we have a look at that horse then? I doubt it’s anything serious. Marlena coddles them terribly. Oh, here’s the little lady now. Come here, darling,” he calls brightly.
From "Water for Elephants" by Sara Gruen
