caressing

/kə'resiɳ/

Friendly

Word: Caressing

Part of Speech: Verb (present participle of "caress")

Definition: To caress means to touch someone gently and lovingly. It is often done in a way that shows affection, such as stroking or hugging.

Simple Explanation

When you caress someone, you are showing them that you care about them. This touching is soft and gentle, and it makes the other person feel loved and comforted.

Usage Instructions

• Use "caressing" to describe actions that are tender and affectionate, often between friends, family, or romantic partners.
• It is usually a gentle action, not rough or aggressive.

Example

• Sentence: She was caressing the puppy, making it feel safe and happy.

Advanced Usage

In more complex sentences, "caressing" can be used to describe emotional or metaphorical touching, such as: - Sentence: The poet's words were caressing her soul, filling her with warmth and joy.

Word Variants

• Noun: Caress
• Adjective: Caressing (as in "a caressing touch")
• Past Tense: Caressed

Different Meanings

While "caressing" primarily refers to gentle physical touch, it can also describe a gentle or soothing manner of speaking or writing that evokes warmth and affection.

Synonyms

• Stroking
• Petting
• Fondling
• Smoothing
• Embracing

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs

While there aren't specific idioms or phrasal verbs that use "caressing," you can consider phrases like: - "Wrap someone in your arms" (to hug someone gently) - "Hold someone close" (to keep someone near you affectionately)

Summary

"Caressing" is a gentle and affectionate way of touching someone, often used to show love or care.

Academic

Noun

1. affectionate play (or foreplay without contact with the genital organs)

Synonyms

• cuddling
• fondling
• hugging
• kissing
• necking
• petting
• smooching
• snuggling