Caress: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe gentle and loving touch, often in an intimate or comforting context.

• She caressed his cheek softly
• He could feel the warm caress of the summer breeze

Used for gently running one's hand over something or someone, typically to show care, affection, or to soothe.

• He stroked her hair as she fell asleep
• The cat purred as she stroked its back

Used for gently and affectionately touching someone or something, often referring to animals or in a casual, friendly context.

• She petted the dog softly
• The children wanted to pet the rabbits at the petting zoo

Used to describe touching someone or something gently and lovingly, but may carry a negative or inappropriate sexual connotation depending on the context.

• He fondled the beads in his hand absentmindedly
• She felt uncomfortable when he tried to fondle her

Used when describing hugging or holding someone close in a warm and affectionate manner, often to show love or comfort.

• The mother cuddled her baby to soothe him
• They cuddled on the couch while watching a movie

Used when gently touching someone affectionately, often in a romantic or tender moment.

• She caressed his cheek softly before he left
• The mother caressed her baby's head to soothe him

Describes a soft and careful touch, often used to convey care, concern, or affection in a non-romantic way.

• With a gentle touch, she bandaged the wound
• The gentle touch of her hands calmed the anxious child

Involves touching someone or something in a gentle, loving way, but it can have a more intimate or sexual connotation. Inappropriate or unwanted fondling can be viewed negatively.

• They were fondling each other under the blanket
• The artist was fondling the delicate sculpture with care

Often describes a continuous action of touching someone gently and affectionately. It can be romantic or comforting.

• He was caressing her hand as they spoke
• The sound of the wind caressing the leaves was soothing

Describes the action of moving one's hand gently over something, often to show affection or to soothe. Can be used with both people and objects.

• He was stroking the cat's fur gently
• She kept stroking his hair until he fell asleep