petting
Americannoun
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the act of fondling or caressing.
Petting or massage may help calm a stressed or hyperactive dog.
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Informal. kissing, caressing, and other sexual activity between partners that does not involve sexual intercourse.
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the present participle of pet.
Etymology
Origin of petting
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.
Wristbands designate how much parents love their children: enough for the all-access pass or just enough for access to the scruffy llama at the pop-up petting zoo?
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 21, 2026
“My favorite part about Tail Town is the different cat personalities, and when the cats get adopted,” said volunteer Darlene Zobel, petting a white and brown tabby, Hana, on her lap.
From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 10, 2026
After building many homes in the Houston suburbs, Lorenzo Salgado finally built his own, where he would sit every evening after work, listening to music and petting his dog, Ronaldo Salgado said.
From Barron's ● Jul. 9, 2026
Capybaras occasionally wander into the café, though petting them isn’t allowed.
From Slate ● May 27, 2026
Nancy came around the petting zoo and back in the gate.
From "Pony Problems: Nancy Drew and the Clue Crew, #3" by Carolyn Keene
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