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Cuddly Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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cuddly

[ˈkʌdli ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

describing a quality

Cuddly refers to something that is soft, lovable, and inviting to embrace. It often describes plush toys, pets, or individuals who have an affectionate demeanor that inspires feelings of warmth and comfort. In general, cuddly things evoke a sense of coziness and tenderness, making people want to hold or snuggle up to them. This term is commonly used in both informal and formal contexts.

Synonyms

adorable, fluffy, huggable, snuggly, soft.

Examples of usage

  • The cuddly puppy waited patiently for me to pick it up.
  • She bought a cuddly toy for her daughter's birthday.
  • His cuddly nature makes him a favorite among children.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Cuddling releases oxytocin, often called the 'love hormone', which helps strengthen emotional bonds and feelings of trust.
  • Studies show that cuddling can reduce stress and promote feelings of happiness, creating a sense of comfort and security.
  • The act of cuddling can also enhance empathy and connection between individuals, promoting better relationships.

Pop Culture

  • Cuddly characters are often portrayed in movies and children's cartoons, from soft toys to gentle giants, enhancing their appeal.
  • Social media influencers sometimes promote 'cuddly' products, from plush toys to cozy clothing, emphasizing comfort in lifestyle branding.
  • The concept of 'cuddly' is frequently linked to popular pets, like dogs and cats, often showcased in viral videos for their charm.

Literature

  • Cuddly characters are common in children's literature, such as Winnie the Pooh, creating a bond between readers and the stories.
  • In poetry and stories, the description of a cuddly creature often symbolizes innocence and love, evoking warm feelings.
  • Classic stories often feature cuddly companions, illustrating themes of friendship and loyalty through soft, relatable characters.

Animal Behavior

  • Certain animal species, such as koalas and puppies, are naturally described as cuddly due to their soft fur and affectionate behavior.
  • Cuddly animals often display nurturing behaviors towards their young, promoting warmth and safety which inspires human affection.
  • The way some animals snuggle and play together can remind us of human cuddling, reflecting strength in social bonding across species.

Origin of 'cuddly'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'cuddle' originated in the 16th century from the Middle English word 'cudlen,' meaning to embrace or snuggle.
  • It is believed that 'cuddle' is connected to the word 'cuddle,' which has roots in Scottish and is related to the word 'cud,' meaning a soft, cozy place.
  • Adding the suffix 'ly' makes it an adjective, describing something that inspires a desire for cuddling.

The word 'cuddly' is derived from the verb 'cuddle', which has its origins in the early 17th century. The term 'cuddle' likely comes from a dialectal use in Northern English, where it is related to the verb 'cuddl', which means to cuddle or to hold closely. The suffix 'y' was added to form the adjective, embodying the characteristics of affection and endearment. The concept of cuddliness can be traced back to various cultural practices of affection and intimacy, where physical closeness plays a vital role in human relationships. Over the centuries, the word has evolved, and today it prominently describes not just physical softness but also emotional warmth and comfort associated with gentle closeness, applicable to both animals and people.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,954 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.