Ca·ress, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Caressed p. pr. & vb. n. Caressing.] To treat with tokens of fondness, affection, or kindness; to touch or speak to in a loving or endearing manner; to fondle.
The lady caresses the rough bloodhound. --Sir W. Scott.
Syn: -- To fondle; embrace; pet; coddle; court; flatter.
Usage: -- Caress, Fondle. “We caress by words or actions; we fondle by actions only.”
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caressing
adj : showing love; "caressive words" [syn: caressive]
n : affectionate play (or foreplay without contact with the
genital organs) [syn: cuddling, fondling, hugging,
kissing, necking, petting, smooching, snuggling]