Liberal Dictionary English Dictionary
fondle [fon-dl] SynonymsWord Origin verb (used with object), fon·dled, fon·dling.
- to handle or touch lovingly, affectionately, or tenderly; caress: to fondle a precious object; to fondle a child.
- Obsolete. to treat with fond indulgence.
verb (used without object), fon·dled, fon·dling.
- to show fondness, as by manner, words, or caresses.
Origin of fondle 1685–95; fond (v.) (derivative of fond1) + -le Related formsfon·dler, nounfon·dling·ly, adverbo·ver·fon·dle, verb, o·ver·fon·dled, o·ver·fon·dling.un·fon·dled, adjectiveCan be confusedfondling foundlingSynonyms for fondle 1. cuddle, snuggle, pet, pat, stroke. Related Words for fondled grope, caress, nuzzle, hug, pat, neck, paw, pet, clutch, cosset, dandle, feel, stroke, cuddle, embrace, love, grab, squeeze, snuggle, nestle British Dictionary definitions for fondled fondle verb
- (tr) to touch or stroke tenderly; caress
- (intr) archaic to act in a loving manner
Derived Formsfondler, nounfondlingly, adverbWord Origin for fondle C17: from (obsolete) vb fond to fondle; see fond 1 Word Origin and History for fondled fondle v.
1690s, “treat with indulgence and affection,” frequentative of fond “dote upon” (see fond). Sense of “caress” first recorded 1796. Related: Fondled; fondling (1670s as a past participle adjective).