Nuzzle: meaning, definitions and examples

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nuzzle

 

[ ˈnʌzəl ]

Verb / Noun
Context #1 | Verb

affectionate

To nuzzle means to rub or push gently against someone with the nose or face, usually to show affection or seek comfort.

Synonyms

cuddle, nestle, snuggle

Examples of usage

  • He nuzzled against her cheek to show his love.
  • The kitten nuzzled against its mother for warmth.
  • She nuzzled her head against his chest in a comforting gesture.
Context #2 | Noun

animal behavior

Nuzzle can also refer to an affectionate rubbing or pressing with the nose or face, typically done by animals as a sign of love or protection.

Synonyms

muzzle, nose, snout

Examples of usage

  • The horse greeted his owner with a gentle nuzzle.
  • The puppy gave a nuzzle to its favorite toy.
  • The cat showed affection with a nuzzle against the baby's hand.

Translations

Translations of the word "nuzzle" in other languages:

🇵🇹 roçar

🇮🇳 सटकर बैठना

🇩🇪 schnüffeln

🇮🇩 menggosokkan hidung

🇺🇦 пригортатися

🇵🇱 trącać nosem

🇯🇵 鼻を擦り付ける

🇫🇷 frotter le nez

🇪🇸 rozar con la nariz

🇹🇷 burnunu sürtmek

🇰🇷 코를 문지르다

🇸🇦 فرك الأنف

🇨🇿 čmuchat

🇸🇰 šúchať nos

🇨🇳 用鼻子蹭

🇸🇮 drgniti z nosom

🇮🇸 strjúka með nefinu

🇰🇿 мұрнын сүрту

🇬🇪 ცხვირის მოჭერა

🇦🇿 burnunu sürtmək

🇲🇽 rozar con la nariz

Etymology

The word 'nuzzle' originated from Middle English 'noselen', which meant to press closely or softly, especially with the nose. Over time, it evolved into 'nuzzle' with a similar meaning of affectionate rubbing or pushing with the nose or face. The act of nuzzling is often associated with animals expressing love or seeking comfort.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #36,292, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.