cuddle
Americanverb (used with object)
verb (used without object)
-
to lie close and snug; nestle.
-
to curl up in going to sleep.
noun
verb
-
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
-
to curl or snuggle up into a comfortable or warm position
noun
Other Word Forms
- cuddlesome adjective
- cuddly adjective
Etymology
Origin of cuddle
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
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.
They also managed to get a cuddle bed installed.
From BBC • Feb. 3, 2026
“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.
From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 15, 2025
He is always happy to see me, and he always wants a scratch or a cuddle.
From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 11, 2025
Miss Alker stresses it's important to eat a balanced diet, do exercise and spend time outside - even when all you want to do is cuddle up under the duvet.
From BBC • Oct. 10, 2025
One of the chimps needs a cuddle, so I let him ride on my hip as I make my way around the tent.
From "Water for Elephants" by Sara Gruen
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
