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

"He would frequently climb on my knee for a cuddle."

From BBC

"He brought so much joy being there. It felt so nice to go over to him and give him a cuddle," Brad told the BBC's Morning Live.

From BBC

She cuddles next to me when I’m sick and sits on my chest when I cry.

From Salon

"It's fine to feed your baby whenever they are hungry, when your breasts feel full or if you just want to have a cuddle."

From BBC

When Zero wants to cuddle, she added, nothing gets in his way.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• caress 
• clasp 
• curl up 
• snuggle