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verb Uncommon

cuddle

KUHD-l

Cuddle (verb) means to hold someone close in an affectionate, gentle embrace. Example: “They cuddled on the couch while watching a movie.”

verb
1
To hold someone close in an affectionate, gentle embrace.
"They cuddled on the couch while watching a movie."
"She cuddled the baby to calm him down."
noun
1
An affectionate embrace, typically warmer and closer than a simple hug.
"He gave his daughter a cuddle before bed."

How to use cuddle

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishTo snuggle up close with someone in a warm, affectionate way.

Common pairings
cuddle up have a cuddle cuddle on the sofa

Word forms

cuddled past tense, cuddles plural, cuddles singular

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

They _____ on the couch while watching a movie.

Etymology

Origin uncertain, likely linked to Middle English words meaning "to be familiar with" or "to make known."

Origin: Middle English

nest snuggle nestle nuzzle draw close

Related words

Rhymes for cuddle

See all rhymes for cuddle →

Frequently asked questions

What does “cuddle” mean?

The word “cuddle” means to hold someone close in an affectionate, gentle embrace. In plain terms, to snuggle up close with someone in a warm, affectionate way.

How do you pronounce “cuddle”?

“Cuddle” is pronounced KUHD-l (/ˈkʌd.l̩/ in IPA).

How do you use “cuddle” in a sentence?

Here is “cuddle” used in a sentence: “They cuddled on the couch while watching a movie.”

What part of speech is “cuddle”?

Depending on how it is used, “cuddle” can be a verb and a noun.

Where does the word “cuddle” come from?

The word “cuddle” comes from Middle English. Origin uncertain, likely linked to Middle English words meaning "to be familiar with" or "to make known.".

Is “cuddle” a common word?

“Cuddle” is an uncommon word in modern English.

How many meanings does “cuddle” have?

“Cuddle” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to hold someone close in an affectionate, gentle embrace.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial