Fondle: meaning, definitions and examples

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fondle

 

[ˈfɒnd(ə)l ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

intimate touch

To fondle means to stroke or caress lovingly or erotically. It involves gentle and affectionate touching. Fondling is often associated with expressing love, tenderness, or desire towards someone or something.

Synonyms

caress, cuddle, pet, stroke.

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Word Description / Examples
fondle

Typically used to describe physical touch in a tender or affectionate manner, often used in intimate contexts. Can sometimes have a negative connotation if the touch is unwelcome or inappropriate.

  • The mother fondled her baby's tiny hand.
  • He fondled the fabric of his new suit, appreciating its quality.
caress

Usually describes gentle, loving touches, often in a romantic or affectionate scenario.

  • She caressed his cheek softly before he left.
  • He gently caressed the dog’s fur, calming it down.
stroke

Describes gentle, repeated movements over a surface, often used in the context of soothing or affectionate touches.

  • He stroked her hair as she fell asleep.
  • The artist stroked the canvas with broad, confident brushstrokes.
pet

Often used to describe the act of gently touching or stroking an animal, typically a domestic pet.

  • She lovingly pet her cat as it purred on her lap.
  • The dog enjoyed being pet behind its ears.
cuddle

Describes a warm and affectionate embrace or holding, usually between people or with pets. Often used in a comforting or intimate setting.

  • They cuddled on the couch while watching a movie.
  • The child cuddled her teddy bear before going to sleep.

Examples of usage

  • She fondled the kitten's soft fur.
  • He fondled her hand while they walked in the park.
  • The couple fondled each other in a romantic embrace.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Middle English word 'fondele,' which means to handle with affection.
  • It has roots in Old French, from 'fonder,' which means to caress or handle tenderly.
  • The usage has shifted over time, often associated with love or care in modern language.

Psychology

  • Physical touch is important for emotional bonding; gentle touches can trigger the release of oxytocin, promoting feelings of trust and comfort.
  • Studies show that touch can improve mood and reduce stress, indicating its psychological benefits.
  • It plays a significant role in non-verbal communication, conveying affection, warmth, and reassurance.

Cultural Perspectives

  • Different cultures have varying norms around touch, particularly in intimate relationships, affecting how fondling is perceived.
  • In some cultures, affectionate touching in public is common, while in others, it may be considered inappropriate.
  • Art and literature often explore themes of touch, often using fondling actions to symbolize deeper connections.

Literature

  • In romance novels, fondling is often depicted as a crucial part of developing intimacy between characters.
  • Poets frequently illustrate the beauty of tender exchanges, highlighting how they express love through gentle touch.
  • Shakespeare’s works include numerous references to fondling as a way to explore the complexities of love and affection.

Health

  • Studies show that gentle touch, like fondling, can have therapeutic benefits, helping with relaxation and emotional healing.
  • Massage therapy often incorporates fondling techniques, demonstrating the physical and emotional benefits of gentle touch.
  • Affectionate touch is linked to improved immune function, showing its potential impact on physical health.

Translations

Translations of the word "fondle" in other languages:

🇵🇹 acariciar

🇮🇳 पुचकारना

🇩🇪 streicheln

🇮🇩 membelai

🇺🇦 пестити

🇵🇱 głaskać

🇯🇵 撫でる (naderu)

🇫🇷 caresser

🇪🇸 acariciar

🇹🇷 okşamak

🇰🇷 쓰다듬다 (sseudadumda)

🇸🇦 يمسح (yamsah)

🇨🇿 hladit

🇸🇰 hladiť

🇨🇳 抚摸 (fǔmō)

🇸🇮 božati

🇮🇸 strjúka

🇰🇿 сипау

🇬🇪 მოფერება (mo'phereba)

🇦🇿 sığallamaq

🇲🇽 acariciar

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,864 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.