handholding

[ hand-hohl-ding ]

/ ˈhændˌhoʊl dɪŋ /

the act of holding hands, especially as a sign or token of affection.

constant reassurance and help, especially as an indication of one's interest or confidence: We do a lot of handholding with our clients.

QUIZZES

Are you learning Spanish? Or do you just have an interest in foreign languages? Either way, this quiz on Spanish words for animals is for you.

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How do you say “cat” 🐈 in Spanish?

First recorded in 1905–10; hand + holding

Even an existing bond benefits from reviewing the fine art of hand-holding and sharing a porch swing.
What the Stars Hold for Your Week, June 26-July 2, 2011|Starsky + Cox|June 26, 2011|DAILY BEAST
In February 1983, Vice President was dispatched on a hand-holding mission to our allies in Europe.
My Brush With Obama's Top Spook|Christopher Buckley|November 29, 2008|DAILY BEAST
Then he laughed, realizing that the hand-holding and the rest were no longer criminal offenses.
The Portygee|Joseph Crosby Lincoln
"Lollapalussing" was a Tweedles word and meant sentimental spooning and a hand-holding tendency.
Back at School with the Tucker Twins|Nell Speed

She's an old cat, like her pussyfooting, hand-holding husband.
Main Street|Sinclair Lewis
I've gone following after you kinder heedless-like till—till he gave me a blow twixt the eyes, with his hand-holding and kissing.
Joyce of the North Woods|Harriet T. Comstock
I wasn't napping when I saw that hand-holding and kissing from the131 top of Beacon Hill.
Joyce of the North Woods|Harriet T. Comstock