Nuzzle
What it means
To touch or rub gently as a sign of affection.
Reach for it when describing a gentle rubbing or pressing gesture of affection or comfort
The old dog would nuzzle each visitor's hand for affection.
Words to choose between 6
| playful | |
|---|---|
| everyday | |
| warm |
|
| formal | |
| literary |
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playful
nose
Fits when an animal pushes or investigates with its nose
Careful Nosing can be curious rather than affectionate.
-
playful
snuggle
Fits when settling closely for warmth and comfort is meant
Careful Snuggling can be still rather than a rubbing motion.
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everyday
rub
Fits when the physical back-and-forth contact is all that matters
Careful Rub loses the affectionate intent.
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warm
Fits when close whole-body affection is central
Careful Cuddling need not involve the face or nose.
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formal
Fits when a deliberate gentle touch expresses affection
Careful Caress is often done with a hand and can sound intimate.
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literary
Fits when settling into a sheltered position suits the scene
Careful Nestling does not require touching with the face.
Opposites 3
- recoil
- shove
- avoid
Common phrases 3
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nuzzle gently
The foal began to nuzzle gently against its keeper's sleeve.
-
nuzzle into
The sleepy child would nuzzle into the wool blanket.
-
nuzzle someone's hand
The old dog liked to nuzzle each visitor's hand.
Definitions and examples are written for this site. How words are chosen Recording: Vealhurl, Southern England accent, from Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0 Updated