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Nestle Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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nestle

[ˈnɛsəl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

intransitive

To settle oneself comfortably and cozily in a place.

Synonyms

cuddle, nuzzle, snuggle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
nestle

Used when describing an action of settling or positioning oneself in a comfortable and snug manner, often implying a sense of warmth and safety.

  • The cat nestled into the blanket on the couch.
  • She nestled against his chest, feeling at peace.
snuggle

Used similarly to 'cuddle,' but more specifically describes the act of settling or curling up comfortably and closely, often under blankets or in a cozy spot.

  • They snuggled in bed to keep warm on a cold winter night.
  • The baby snuggled in her mother's arms, feeling secure.
cuddle

Used when referring to the act of holding someone close in one's arms as a way of showing affection or comfort. Often involves more intimacy and can be between people or with pets.

  • They cuddled on the sofa while watching a movie.
  • The child cuddled with her teddy bear before falling asleep.
nuzzle

Used to describe the act of gently rubbing or pushing one's nose or face against someone or something, often in a tender or affectionate manner.

  • The puppy nuzzled her hand, asking for attention.
  • He nuzzled her neck, whispering sweet words.

Examples of usage

  • She nestled into the soft cushions of the couch.
  • The cat nestled in the warm sunbeam.
Context #2 | Verb

transitive

To place something in a sheltered or snug position.

Synonyms

nest, settle, tuck.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
nestle

Used to describe someone or something finding a comfortable and often protected position or location.

  • She nestled into the cozy armchair with a book.
  • The cabin is nestled in the woods.
nest

Refers to a structure built by birds, insects, or other animals to live in or raise their young. Can also metaphorically mean a comfortable and secure place.

  • The birds were busy building their nest.
  • They found a quiet nest to call home.
tuck

Describes placing something neatly and snugly in a particular place, often to secure or hide it.

  • She tucked the blanket around the sleeping child.
  • He tucked the money safely into his wallet.
settle

Indicates resolving or establishing a position, often after some difficulty or movement. Can also mean to calm down or become comfortable.

  • They finally settled in a small town by the sea.
  • The baby settled down after being fed.

Examples of usage

  • She nestled the baby in her arms.
  • The bird nestled its eggs in the nest.
Context #3 | Noun

literal

A cozy, snug place or position.

Synonyms

cranny, hiding place, nook.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
nestle

Used when referring to settling comfortably or being snuggled in a place. Often implies a sense of warmth and coziness.

  • She nestled into the soft armchair with a good book.
  • The cat nestled against my legs as I sat by the fire.
nook

Refers to a small, cozy or secluded corner, often in a room or a place where one can relax or work quietly.

  • She enjoyed reading in the little nook by the window.
  • They transformed the unused space into a cozy breakfast nook.
cranny

Refers to a small, narrow space or crevice, usually used when talking about hidden or hard-to-see places.

  • The mouse disappeared into a cranny in the wall.
  • The treasure was hidden in the crannies of the old castle.
hiding place

Describes a location where someone or something can be concealed. Often used when speaking of secrecy or safety.

  • The kids found a perfect hiding place behind the curtains.
  • He led us to his secret hiding place in the woods.

Examples of usage

  • The squirrel built its nestle in the tree hollow.
  • The child found a warm nestle in the blankets.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • In popular food culture, 'Nestle' is a well-known brand associated with chocolate and other treats.
  • The term has been used in various songs and poems to evoke feelings of comfort and warmth.
  • Nestle has also created marketing campaigns that emphasize the idea of togetherness and family through sharing food.

Nature

  • Many animals, including birds and mammals, nestle their young in safe, warm places to protect them.
  • The act of nesting is critical for survival in the animal kingdom, as it provides shelter and warmth.
  • The word can also describe how certain plants grow close to the ground in protective clumps, similar to nesting behavior.

Psychology

  • Cuddling or nestling indicates a sense of security and safety, linked to comfort in human relationships.
  • Studies suggest that physical closeness can enhance emotional well-being and reduce stress.
  • Nestling behavior in humans, like hugging, can trigger the release of oxytocin, the 'feel-good' hormone.

Literature

  • 'Nestle' often appears in poetry and stories to convey themes of safety, warmth, and intimacy.
  • Famous writers have used the concept of nestling to illustrate the comfort found in companionship and home.
  • Children's literature frequently features characters that nestle in cozy spots, inviting readers to share in their warmth.

Origin of 'nestle'

Main points about word origin

  • 'Nestle' comes from the Middle English word 'nestlen,' which means to settle or take shelter.
  • The word is derived from 'nest,' which links it to the idea of being cozy and protected.
  • The combination of the words suggests a gentle action, like tucking yourself away comfortably.

The word 'nestle' originated from Middle English 'nestlen', which meant 'to build a nest'. The sense of 'snuggle down' came about in the 16th century. Over time, the word evolved to encompass both the literal and metaphorical meanings of finding a cozy place. Today, 'nestle' is commonly used to describe settling into comfort or placing something in a sheltered position.

See also: nest, nestling.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,762 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.