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.

“It’s like I got married ... sorry, Norm,” she said, cradling the statue.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 17, 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

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

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 2, 2025

At Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis in the south of the Strip, Alaa Abu Hihal stands cradling his baby son Mohammed in his arms.

From BBC • Mar. 19, 2025

“That would explain it,” he said, cradling Duuzuu in the crook of his arm.

From "Willodeen" by Katherine Applegate