Hugging: meaning, definitions and examples

Hugging is a general term used for wrapping your arms around someone, often as a greeting, farewell, or to show affection or comfort.

• They were hugging each other tightly at the airport.
• She loves hugging her friends when she sees them.

Embracing can be used similarly to 'hugging' but often carries a more formal or poetic tone. It may also imply acceptance or support when used metaphorically.

• They were embracing each other after a long time apart.
• He embraced his friend's idea wholeheartedly.

Cuddling suggests a more intimate and prolonged physical closeness, typically involving lying or sitting together, often used between romantic partners or parents and children.

• They enjoyed cuddling on the couch while watching movies.
• She spent the afternoon cuddling her baby.

Squeezing might suggest a more forceful or tight hug, and can sometimes have a playful or urgent connotation.

• She squeezed her friend so hard, he could barely breathe.
• He gave his dog a quick squeeze before leaving for work.

Used in a general context where two people wrap their arms around each other. Often, it is an expression of affection, support, or greeting.

• She was hugging her friend tightly after not seeing her for years.
• Children were hugging their parents goodbye at the school gate.

A more formal or poetic term. It can signify both a literal wrapping of arms around someone and a figurative acceptance or adoption of ideas and situations.

• He embraced her warmly after the long flight.
• They decided to embrace the challenges ahead with courage.

Often used to describe a prolonged and tender form of physical closeness. It usually signifies warmth and comfort, often associated with close relationships or family.

• They were cuddling on the couch while watching a movie.
• She loves to cuddle with her cat on cold nights.

Usually refers to a tighter, sometimes more forceful hold. This word can imply affection or support in an urgent or impactful manner and may also have a slightly negative connotation if it feels too tight or overwhelming.

• She gave him a quick squeeze before letting go.
• His handshake was more of a squeeze, making her feel uncomfortable.