cuddle

plural cuddles

1. USAn intimate physical embrace, typically while lying (or sitting): a snuggle, an instance of lying together snugly, as one might with a partner (more intimate than a hug, and typically of longer duration).

   I'm so impatient / I can't stand the wait / When will I get my cuddle?

   1995, “I Miss You”, in Post, performed by Björk

2. UKAn affectionate embrace, a hug, such as is given to family members and close friends (less intimate than a snuggle, and typically of shorter duration).

   Give me a cuddle, Paul; it'll cheer you up.

present singular third person cuddles · participle present cuddling · participle past cuddled · past cuddled

1. USintransitivetransitiveTo lie together snugly (with someone), in an intimate physical embrace; to snuggle.

   The young lovers cuddled on the couch.

2. UKintransitivetransitiveTo embrace (someone) affectionately; to hug (someone) closely.
3. transitiveTo cradle (e.g. a baby) in one's arms so as to give comfort, warmth.

   She cuddled the infant before bedtime.

   1 more example

   I'm cold; can you roll over here and cuddle me, honey?

4. To lie close or snug; to crouch; to nestle.

   She cuddles low behind the brake; / Nor would she stay, nor dares she fly.

   1717, Matthew Prior, The Dove