nuzzle

American  

[nuhz-uhl] / ˈnʌz əl /

verb (used without object)

nuzzled, nuzzling

1. to burrow or root with the nose, snout, etc., as an animal does.

   a rabbit nuzzling into the snow.

2. to thrust the nose, muzzle, etc..

   The dog nuzzled up to his master.

3. to lie very close to someone or something; cuddle or snuggle up.

---

verb (used with object)

nuzzled, nuzzling

1. to root up with the nose, snout, etc..

   training pigs to nuzzle truffles from the ground.

2. to touch or rub with the nose, snout, muzzle, etc.

3. to thrust the nose, muzzle, snout, etc., against or into.

   The horse was nuzzling my pocket for sugar.

4. to thrust (the nose or head), as into something.

5. to lie very close to; cuddle or snuggle up to.

noun

1. an affectionate embrace or cuddle.

nuzzle British  

/ ˈnʌzəl /

verb

1. to push or rub gently against the nose or snout

2. (intr) to nestle; lie close

3. (tr) to dig out with the snout

---

Other Word Forms

• unnuzzled adjective

Etymology

Origin of nuzzle

1375–1425; late Middle English noselen to grovel; origin uncertain

Example Sentences

Akira wrapped her arms around Dodger’s head and returned the nuzzle.

From Literature

The girl did not know what to say to that, so she said nothing, continuing instead to let the cow nuzzle her hand.

From Literature

His yips fall off and he nuzzles my ruff.

From Literature

The great beast nuzzled the horsehair wig with her nose and sniffed at the soup.

From Literature

After freeing himself from the nest of yellow curls on Lady Constance’s head, the surprised squirrel leaped onto Cassiopeia’s shoulder for a quick nuzzle and a biscuit crumb before skittering away.

From Literature

Related Words

• caress