Nuzzle: meaning, definitions and examples

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nuzzle

[ˈnʌzəl ]

Definitions

^{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.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
nuzzle	This word is often used when someone or something gently rubs or presses their nose or face against someone or something. It has an affectionate and tender connotation. The cat nuzzled its owner's hand. The baby nuzzled against her mother.
snuggle	Similar to cuddle, snuggle is used when someone gets close to another person or thing for warmth and comfort. It often has a cute or endearing connotation. The puppy snuggled up next to its mom. They snuggled under the warm blanket.
cuddle	This word is typically used when two people or animals hold each other in their arms for warmth and affection. It has a strong sense of comfort and intimacy. They cuddled on the sofa and watched a movie. The child cuddled with her teddy bear.
nestle	Nestle means to settle or lie comfortably within or against something. It often implies finding a cozy, secure place. She nestled into the soft pillows. The bird nestled snugly in its nest.

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.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
nuzzle	This word is often used to describe a cozy, affectionate action, usually when an animal or a person lightly rubs their face or nose against someone or something. It has a warm, endearing connotation. The kitten nuzzled against her hand, purring softly. He nuzzled his face into the soft blanket, seeking comfort.
nose	Nose refers specifically to the part of the face or body used for smelling and breathing. It can be used for both humans and animals. The word is very general and doesn't carry any special emotional weight. He tapped his nose as if he had just thought of something clever. The dog sniffed around with his nose, trying to pick up a scent.
snout	Snout is used to describe the extended, prominent nose and mouth part of an animal, typically those like pigs, dogs, or other mammals. It can sometimes imply a certain awkward appearance. The pig rooted around in the mud with its snout.
muzzle	Muzzle can mean two things: the part of an animal's face that includes the nose, mouth, and jaws, or a device placed over the nose and mouth of an animal to prevent it from biting or eating. It is often used in veterinary or control contexts and can have a negative connotation when referring to the device. The veterinarian examined the dog's muzzle for any signs of infection. She had to muzzle her dog at the vet's office because he gets nervous around strangers.

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.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Middle English 'nuslen', which means 'to fondle' or 'to cuddle'.
It is believed to be a combination of 'nuzzle' and 'snuggle', conveying a sense of warmth and closeness.
In some dialects, 'nuzzle' has also been associated with burrowing or rooting around, akin to how animals show affection.

Animal Behavior

Many animals, particularly pets like cats and dogs, nuzzle as a way of bonding and seeking comfort.
This behavior can also serve as a way for young animals to find their mothers or establish trust.
Nuzzling can also be a sign of submission or affection in pack animals, reinforcing social bonds.

Psychology

Physical touch, such as nuzzling, releases oxytocin, often called the 'bonding hormone', which strengthens connections.
Nuzzling can reduce stress and anxiety, providing comfort through close physical contact.
The act of nuzzling may trigger the release of endorphins, promoting feelings of happiness and safety.

Cultural References

In literature, nuzzling often symbolizes love or affection, marking tender moments between characters.
Various cultures celebrate physical expressions of love, and nuzzling reflects this across many communities.
In art, scenes depicting nuzzling animals frequently convey themes of warmth, companionship, and care.

Language and Usage

The term 'nuzzle' is often used in poetry and romantic literature to illustrate intimate moments.
It is a more affectionate term than 'push' or 'bump', suggesting a gentle, loving approach.
Interestingly, nuzzling can also describe how some plants lean or grow towards sources of light, indicating closeness in nature.

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

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.

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36289 scrounge
36290 freelancer
36291 perspired
36292 nuzzle
36293 debugged
36294 ineffably
36295 westerner
...