cuddle

[ kuhd-l ]

verb (used with object)

, cud·dled, cud·dling.

1. to hold close in an affectionate manner; hug tenderly; fondle.

verb (used without object)

, cud·dled, cud·dling.

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. intrfoll byup to curl or snuggle up into a comfortable or warm position

noun

1. a close embrace, esp when prolonged

Derived Forms

• ˈcuddlesome, adjective
• ˈcuddly, 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

It is intended for the fish, but you will not be offended if it cuddles up to other items on your plate.

From Salon

The putative “cuddle hormone,” oxytocin, has been found to not only facilitate group bonding but also, as a result, make killing those in enemy groups less troubling.

From Salon

His characterisation of one such encounter as a "sleepy cuddle" drew particular scorn from his critics.

From BBC

You could write your beautiful thoughts about Kris on a cardboard coffin and help yourself to a toy cat to cuddle - just as Kris relied on her own cat, Lady Marmalade, for comfort.

From BBC

At the subsequent criminal trial, Mr Salmond admitted to having a "sleepy cuddle" with one complainer and what his defence lawyer called "a bit of how's your father" with another.

From BBC

Related Words

• caress
• clasp
• curl up
• snuggle