cradling

[kreyd-l-ing] / ˈkreɪd l ɪŋ /

VERB

hold in arms; nurture

Synonyms

STRONG

lull nestle nourish nurse rock support tend

WEAK

watch over

Antonyms

STRONG

abandon ignore neglect

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.

She shared two photos of herself in a white outfit cradling her baby bump as Kaplan holds her leg and smiles at her.

From Los Angeles Times • May 18, 2026

They focus on motherhood and love, with rounded forms cradling one another and calling to mind the work of Henry Moore.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 14, 2026

“Coachella!” exclaimed Geena Davis, cradling her head on the table in front of her.

From Los Angeles Times • May 13, 2026

Trump's spokeswoman -- who is best known for her acid put-downs of journalists -- posted a picture of herself in a nursery, cradling her baby daughter to her chest.

From Barron's • May 7, 2026

“Our lives may be over before they’ve begun,” Jacob added, cradling his head in his hands.

From "The Inquisitor's Tale" by Adam Gidwitz