cuddle

1 of 2

verb

cud·​dle ˈkə-dᵊl How to pronounce cuddle (audio)
cuddled; cuddling ˈkəd-liŋ How to pronounce cuddle (audio)
ˈkə-dᵊl-iŋ

transitive verb

: to hold close for warmth or comfort or in affection
He cuddled the puppy.

intransitive verb

: to lie close or snug : nestle, snuggle
… dewy glens where couples cuddle on blankets …Bob Sipchen
cuddler
ˈkəd-lər How to pronounce cuddle (audio)
ˈkə-dᵊl-ər
noun

cuddle

2 of 2

noun

: a close embrace

Examples of cuddle in a Sentence

Verb Let's cuddle by the fire. kittens cuddling in a basket
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Verb
The duo didn't waste any time in forming their unbreakable bond, as they can be seen cuddling up together on the bed and sleeping side by side. David Faris, Newsweek, 4 Nov. 2024 Where Does All The Dust Come From? People And Pets We spend a lot of time in our living rooms playing games, watching TV, and cuddling with pets and kids on the couch. Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 4 Nov. 2024
Noun
Whether voters align with Kamala Harris, Donald Trump, or are still on the fence, the dogs are there for cuddles and attention. Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 5 Nov. 2024 In June, Cohen shared a glimpse into the start of his Father's Day on his Instagram Stories — which included a slightly later wake-up call and some cuddles while watching Camp Snoopy. Hannah Sacks, People.com, 1 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for cuddle 

Word History

Etymology

Verb and Noun

origin unknown

First Known Use

Verb

1520, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

Noun

1825, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of cuddle was in 1520

Dictionary Entries Near cuddle

Cite this Entry

“Cuddle.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cuddle. Accessed 28 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

cuddle

verb
cud·​dle
ˈkəd-ᵊl
cuddled; cuddling
ˈkəd-liŋ,
-ᵊl-iŋ
1
: to hold close for warmth or comfort or in affection
2
: to lie close : nestle, snuggle
cuddle noun
cuddly
ˈkəd-lē
-ᵊl-ē
adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on cuddle

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!