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

Rocki Irish Mayers was born on 13 September, the singer announced in an Instagram post, sharing a snap of her cradling her daughter alongside a picture of miniature pink boxing gloves.

From BBC • Sep. 24, 2025

Suddenly, Henry, 6, walks into the dads’ circle, cradling three baby dolls.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 11, 2025

As Baba moored the nauka, Neel climbed carefully out, still cradling the cub.

From "Tiger Boy" by Mitali Perkins