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
  • Taken from their backside, the pair is seen carrying golf clubs as the former NSYNC star pats his son on the head.
    — Melina Khan, USA Today, 19 Aug. 2026
  • Drake also used the opening portion of the stream to reflect on his recent releases, patting himself on the back a little for dropping three projects at once.
    — Jeff Ihaza, Rolling Stone, 9 Aug. 2026
Definition of pat
Verb
  • Afterwards, as Cheogyal puts it, the spiritual leader stroked his head with compassion.
    — CNN Money, CNN Money, 2 Aug. 2026
  • Leaders do not have the luxury of sitting in the corner contemplating their feelings or hoping someone will stroke their egos.
    — Chris Adams, Forbes.com, 23 July 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 23 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on caress

Nglish: Translation of caress for Spanish Speakers

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