WordGarden.ionuzzle
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /nˈʌzəl/
US
- /ˈnəzəl/
Meanings
Verb
to rub or press the nose or face gently against someone, often affectionately
to press or settle closely into something for comfort or warmth
Noun
an affectionate rub or press with the nose or face
Beyond the definition
Imagine a puppy greeting its owner-can you feel that soft press of its nose against your hand or cheek? That's a nuzzle. It's more than just touching; it's a gentle, natural way to show affection or look for comfort. Animals often do this with each other, and with humans, as a sign of trust and closeness. People can do it too, usually by gently rubbing their face or nose against someone or something in a warm, loving way. Think of a kitten pressing close to its mother, or a child leaning their face into a parent's shoulder.
To nuzzle is to gently press or rub with the nose, face, or head in a tender way. The word is strongly connected with affection, comfort, and closeness. It is most often used for animals, such as a horse pressing its nose against your neck or a dog pushing its face into your lap, but people can do it too by softly rubbing their face against another person's cheek or shoulder.
The act often suggests a desire for reassurance or connection. It can be instinctive: baby animals press close to their mothers to find warmth, milk, and safety. That natural need for comfort is one reason the gesture feels so soft and caring.
It is not forceful; it is soft, close, and often a little searching. Someone might nuzzle into a blanket, pillow, or another person's shoulder when they want warmth or rest. The word can sometimes be extended to things beyond living beings, especially soft or comforting things, but it is usually used for physical closeness rather than abstract ideas.
So, whether it is a playful puppy greeting you at the door, a cat pressing against your hand, or a loved one gently rubbing their face against yours, to nuzzle is to show affection and look for comfort through soft, close contact.
Examples
- 1
Puppy affection
The puppy nuzzled my hand, then licked my fingers.
- 2
Baby comfort
The baby nuzzled against her mother's shoulder and fell asleep.
- 3
Warmth
He nuzzled his face into the warm blanket.
- 4
Searching
The horse nuzzled at my coat pocket, looking for the apple.
- Patternnuzzle at + object
push or rub it gently, often while trying to find something
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Cat affection
The cat nuzzled up to my ankle while I was making breakfast.
- Patternnuzzle up to + person
move close and press against them affectionately
See also
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- nuzzleverb
Forms
- nuzzling-ing formverb
- nuzzledpast tenseverb
- nuzzlesverb