Cuddle
/ˈkʌd.əl/noun
To hold close in one's arms as a way of showing affection.
Did you know?In medieval times, to 'cuddle' was linked to the act of drawing someone close for comfort, often seen as a protective spell against loneliness.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Germanic
PGmc
kudwō
“to embrace or hold tight.”
Old Norse
ON
kǫttr
“a cat, often associated with warmth and affection.”
Middle English
ME
cuddel
“to embrace, often used in a context of intimate warmth.”
Modern English
English
cuddle
“to hold closely in affection, often while lying together.”
Explore more surprising origins