cradling

American

[kreyd-l-ing] / ˈkreɪd l ɪŋ /

noun

framework for supporting a coved or vaulted ceiling.

cradling British

/ ˈkreɪdlɪŋ /

noun

architect a framework of iron or wood, esp as used in the construction of a ceiling

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of cradling

First recorded in 1810–20; cradle + -ing ¹

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.

See Examples For:

cradling

“Turn a little bit sideways!” a photographer requested, and Hathaway laughed and complied, cradling her stomach proudly.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 12, 2026

He entered the bathroom and saw Nix cradling Andrea, who was "limp" and wrapped in a towel.

From BBC ● Jun. 19, 2026

They focus on motherhood and love, with rounded forms cradling one another and calling to mind the work of Henry Moore.

From The Wall Street Journal ● May 14, 2026

“Coachella!” exclaimed Geena Davis, cradling her head on the table in front of her.

From Los Angeles Times ● May 13, 2026

He turned to take a sight on the far shore, cradling the oarhandles, taking the pipe from his mouth to wipe his chin with the back of his hand.

From "The Road" by Cormac McCarthy

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023