caress

verb

kə-ˈres How to pronounce caress (audio)
Definition of caressnext
as in to pat
to touch or handle in a tender or loving manner gently caressed her hair

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of caress After examining her injury, Brito began to caress and massage Patient 1’s foot under the guise of providing care. — David J. Neal, Miami Herald, 28 June 2026 Richer, more concentrated Prosecco with delectable flavors of nectarine tart and apricot preserves with intense minerality and delicate bubbles that caress the palate. — Cathrine Todd, Forbes.com, 25 June 2026 The Princess Diaries star smiles, caresses her belly, then ducks out of the frame. — Redazione People, Vanity Fair, 19 June 2026 Kate could be seen reaching over to caress the back of Louis’s short blonde hair, showing off her iconic sapphire and diamond engagement ring. — Lara Walsh, InStyle, 13 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for caress
Recent Examples of Synonyms for caress
  1. pat
  2. stroke
Verb
  • Edwards stood silently -- remaining in the well until Johnson left the rostrum, approached Edwards from behind and patted him on the back -- leading him up the aisle to the back of the chamber.
    — John Parkinson, ABC News, 1 Sep. 2026
  • Drain and rinse a can of chickpeas and pat them dry (the key to getting them crispy).
    — Jennifer Berger, Verywell Health, 31 Aug. 2026
Definition of pat
Verb
  • But Kim stroked a walk-off single into left field in the ninth inning off Dodgers reliever Tanner Scott to give the Atlanta Braves a 6-5 victory over the Dodgers on Wednesday night.
    — Bill Plunkett, Oc Register, 27 Aug. 2026
  • Afterwards, as Cheogyal puts it, the spiritual leader stroked his head with compassion.
    — CNN Money, CNN Money, 2 Aug. 2026
Definition of stroke

Browse Nearby Words

cares (for)
caress
caressed
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Caress.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/caress. Accessed 5 Sep. 2026.

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