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 Slater caressed Miller’s stomach before Tao ran over to touch his mom’s bump with his hands covered in sand. — Kayla Grant, PEOPLE, 31 July 2026 Pulling out the rocket launcher Mac had bought him on the dark web, Dennis was genuinely overcome, caressing his bucket-list war weapon in stunned gratitude, while Mac beamed in what, on any other show, would be heartwarming friendship. — Dennis Perkins, Entertainment Weekly, 28 July 2026 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 See All Example Sentences for caress
Recent Examples of Synonyms for caress
  1. pat
  2. stroke
Verb
  • In 2022, the paparazzi leaked photos of the two holding hands, nestled into each other at a New York bar, and Holmes patting Robach on the rear.
    — Emily St. Martin, Los Angeles Times, 14 Oct. 2026
  • And, like with Quincosa, a Customs agent patted Castillo down and found multiple plastic tubes covered in tape concealed under his pants.
    — David Goodhue October 7, Miami Herald, 7 Oct. 2026
Definition of pat
Verb
  • The young woman on the left strokes her hair and tells her not to be nervous.
    — Anna Griffin, New York Times, 4 Oct. 2026
  • Charli even stroked the bathroom hand dryer — a clever reference to everybody’s favorite scene in Desperately Seeking Susan.
    — Rob Sheffield, Rolling Stone, 28 Sep. 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 21 Oct. 2026.

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