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Caressing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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caressing

[kəˈrɛsɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

romantic relationship

To touch or stroke gently in a loving and tender way. Caressing is often done to show affection or to express love towards someone.

Synonyms

fondling, gentle touch, petting, stroking.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
caressing

Used to describe a gentle, loving touch, often between romantic partners or parents and children.

  • He was caressing her hair softly as she fell asleep.
  • The mother caressed her baby's cheek lovingly.
stroking

Describes a repetitive, soothing motion, often used with pets or to comfort someone.

  • He was stroking the dog's fur gently.
  • She stroked his back until he calmed down.
petting

Commonly used when describing interactions with pets or playful and affectionate touches between people. Can sometimes have a sexual connotation.

  • She spent hours petting her cat on the couch.
  • The teenagers were petting and giggling in the back of the cinema.
fondling

Describes a more intimate and sensual touch, often with a sexual connotation. It can sometimes have a negative or uncomfortable implication if not consensual.

  • They were fondling each other under the table.
  • He was accused of fondling her without her consent.
gentle touch

Refers to any soft and careful touch, often used to convey kindness or to soothe someone.

  • The nurse’s gentle touch eased the patient's pain.
  • He applied a gentle touch to the fragile artwork.

Examples of usage

  • She enjoyed caressing her partner's hair while watching a movie together.
  • He caressed her cheek softly before kissing her goodnight.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, gentle touch, like caressing, is an important way to show love and care in family relationships.
  • In some traditions, a caress can signify comfort and support, often associated with healing practices.
  • Different cultures have varied gestures for caressing, such as hugs, kisses, or even nestled hands, each conveying unique sentiments.

Psychology

  • Touch has been proven to release oxytocin, the 'feel-good' hormone, which fosters emotional bonding.
  • Studies show that caressing can reduce stress and enhance feelings of safety and trust in relationships.
  • Some psychologists suggest that gentle touch is crucial for emotional development in children, highlighting its role in secure attachments.

Literature

  • Caressing often appears in poetry to convey tenderness between lovers, emphasizing deep emotional connections.
  • Classic novels often use caressing as a metaphor for love's gentleness, reflecting the characters' relationships.
  • In many stories, the act of caressing marks pivotal moments of intimacy, showcasing shifts in character dynamics.

Art

  • Visual artists often use soft strokes in paintings to represent the idea of caressing, evoking emotions in viewers.
  • In sculpture, the treatment of the surface can convey a sense of touch that resonates with the concept of gentleness.
  • The incorporation of caressing gestures in dance can express complex emotions and relationships through movement.

Origin of 'caressing'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'caress' comes from the French word 'caresser,' which means to stroke or touch gently.
  • In Latin, the word 'caritas' means 'beloved' or 'dear', showing how touching can express affection.
  • The evolution of the term reflects how languages adapt emotional concepts through physical expressions.

The word 'caressing' originated from the French word 'caresser', which means to fondle or to show love and tenderness. It has been used in English since the 17th century to describe gentle and loving touch.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,100, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.