caresses

NOUN

loving touch

Synonyms

STRONG

cuddle embrace endearment feel fondling hug kiss pat pet petting snuggle squeeze stroke

VERB

touch lovingly

Synonyms

STRONGEST

clutch cuddle fondle graze kiss massage nuzzle pat rub

STRONG

brush buss clinch coddle cosset dandle embrace feel handle hug mug neck nestle pet squeeze stroke toy

WEAK

bear hug make love play around

Antonyms

STRONG

disbelieve let go release

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

In Ain Ebel's cemetery, Jallad caresses her son's tombstone, surrounded by women trying to comfort her.

From Barron's • Mar. 16, 2026

We see Ella Fitzgerald at New York’s Basin Street East in the mid-1950s; her eyes closed, she gently leans into a microphone that she caresses with both hands.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 21, 2025

She spots amaranth and caresses the diamond-shaped green leaves, commonly known as pigweed in English.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 25, 2024

Within sight of the fierce flames Mohammed Atris caresses the fresh green shoots that cover his land.

From BBC • Dec. 26, 2022

He caresses my hair and kisses the top of my head.

From "Love, Hate & Other Filters" by Samira Ahmed