nestle

American  

[nes-uhl] / ˈnɛs əl /

verb (used without object)

nestled, nestling

1. to lie close and snug, like a bird in a nest; snuggle or cuddle.

2. to lie or be located in a sheltered spot; be naturally or pleasantly situated.

   a cottage nestling in a pine grove.

3. Archaic.

   1. to make or have a nest.

   2. to make one's home; settle in a home.

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verb (used with object)

nestled, nestling

1. to settle or ensconce snugly.

   He nestled himself into the hay for a short nap.

2. to put or press confidingly or affectionately.

   She nestled her head on his shoulder.

3. to provide with or settle in a nest, as a bird.

nestle British  

/ ˈnɛsəl /

verb

1. (intr; often foll by up or down) to snuggle, settle, or cuddle closely

2. (intr) to be in a sheltered or protected position; lie snugly

3. (tr) to shelter or place snugly or partly concealed, as in a nest

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Other Word Forms

• nestler noun
• unnestled adjective

Etymology

Origin of nestle

before 1000; Middle English nestlen, Old English nestlian, cognate with Dutch nestelen. See nest, -le

Example Sentences

In the center of the pan, nestle a block of feta.

From Salon • Mar. 23, 2026

“People who live in the Palisades don’t want to leave. It’s a magical place — they nestle into the mountains right by the ocean,” Walker said.

From Los Angeles Times • May 28, 2025

And Freeman’s mind, it turns out, is a homespun and jokey but curiously earnest place, where the well-known artists and writers of her parents’ generation nestle together in comfortable free-for-all.

From New York Times • May 2, 2024

Bacteria multiply rapidly between 40 degrees F and 140 F. Keep cold foods in the fridge until just before serving or nestle the food in ice.

From Seattle Times • Feb. 10, 2024

When Runt tried to nestle into his chest, Pax nipped him on the shoulder.

From "Pax" by Sara Pennypacker