cuddle

1 of 2

verb

cud·​dle ˈkə-dᵊl 

cuddled; cuddling ˈkəd-liŋ 

ˈkə-dᵊl-iŋ

transitive verb

: to hold close for warmth or comfort or in affection

He cuddled the puppy.

intransitive verb

: to lie close or snug : nestle, snuggle

… dewy glens where couples cuddle on blankets …

—Bob Sipchen

cuddler

ˈkəd-lər 

ˈkə-dᵊl-ər

noun

cuddle

2 of 2

noun

: a close embrace

Synonyms

Verb

• nestle
• nuzzle
• snoozle [chiefly dialect]
• snuggle

Examples of cuddle in a Sentence

Verb

Let's cuddle by the fire.

kittens cuddling in a basket

Recent Examples on the Web

Verb

The duo didn't waste any time in forming their unbreakable bond, as they can be seen cuddling up together on the bed and sleeping side by side. —David Faris, Newsweek, 4 Nov. 2024

Where Does All The Dust Come From? People And Pets We spend a lot of time in our living rooms playing games, watching TV, and cuddling with pets and kids on the couch. —Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 4 Nov. 2024

Noun

Whether voters align with Kamala Harris, Donald Trump, or are still on the fence, the dogs are there for cuddles and attention. —Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 5 Nov. 2024

In June, Cohen shared a glimpse into the start of his Father's Day on his Instagram Stories — which included a slightly later wake-up call and some cuddles while watching Camp Snoopy. —Hannah Sacks, People.com, 1 Nov. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Verb and Noun

origin unknown

First Known Use

Verb

1520, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

Noun

1825, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

cuddle

verb

cud·​dle

ˈkəd-ᵊl

cuddled; cuddling

ˈkəd-liŋ,

-ᵊl-iŋ

1

: to hold close for warmth or comfort or in affection

2

: to lie close : nestle, snuggle

cuddle noun

cuddly

ˈkəd-lē

-ᵊl-ē

adjective