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.

Roberts, 40, could be seen cradling her baby bump in front of a Christmas tree in a photo gallery shared on Instagram.

From BBC • Dec. 26, 2025

Audience members, seated in neat rows and cradling cocktails, enthusiastically applaud.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 9, 2025

He is cradling the ball in his left hand and warding off impending tacklers with his right, a striking bronze symbol of a university’s resilience and strength.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 20, 2025

Green’s former bandmate, drummer Mick Fleetwood, is also pictured cradling the guitar.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 2, 2025

Mother was cradling Emily’s head against her shoulder.

From "Educated" by Tara Westover