nuzzle

[ nuhz-uhl ]

verb (used without object)

, nuz·zled, nuz·zling.

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)

, nuz·zled, nuz·zling.

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

/ 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 Words From

• un·nuzzled adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of nuzzle¹

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of nuzzle¹

C15: nosele, from nose (n)

Example Sentences

For a veteran with PTSD, a service dog may retrieve medication or perform anxiety-relieving actions like nuzzling or leaning against a person when the dog senses a heightened state of anxiety.

From Science Daily

"FYI we did NOT feed them as that is not allowed - they came up and nuzzled us so we just gave them a little pat then let them be."

From BBC

Picture the soft, cool nuzzle of your dog.

From Seattle Times

A small grey kitten with an injured nose kept jumping on his shoulder, nuzzling him.

From Seattle Times

As soon as the two goats were introduced, Harold showed lots of interest and went over to nuzzle them.

From BBC

Related Words

• caress