cuddle

[kuhd-l]

verb (used with object)

cuddled, cuddling 

1. to hold close in an affectionate manner; hug tenderly; fondle.

verb (used without object)

cuddled, cuddling 

1. to lie close and snug; nestle.

2. to curl up in going to sleep.

noun

1. act of cuddling; hug; embrace.

cuddle

/ ˈkʌdəl /

verb

1. to hold (another person or thing) close or (of two people, etc) to hold each other close, as for affection, comfort, or warmth; embrace; hug

2. to curl or snuggle up into a comfortable or warm position

noun

1. a close embrace, esp when prolonged

Other Word Forms

• cuddlesome adjective
• cuddly adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of cuddle¹

1510–20; perhaps back formation from Middle English cudliche intimate, affectionate, Old English cūthlīc, or from Middle English cuthlechen, Old English cūthlǣcan to make friends with; couth ², -ly

Word History and Origins

Origin of cuddle¹

C18: of uncertain origin

Example Sentences

Woo cuddles up in between us and is rewarded with some head scritches from Autumn.

Read more on Literature

For a panda to survive in the wild, a panda must be wild—and that can’t happen if it’s been cuddled and coddled and cared for by humans before it’s released.

Read more on Literature

“There are a few steps you can take to stay safe during this storm. Consider changing your weekend plans and stay home, cuddle up, watch a movie,” Los Angeles Fire Chief Jaime Moore said.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Against all odds, Kobi pulled through and eight "agonising" days later, they finally got their first cuddle with their son, which felt like a "miracle".

Read more on BBC

Then, like now, right-wing authoritarianism was cuddled up with the oligarchs.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• caress 
• clasp 
• curl up 
• snuggle