# caress

/kɝˈɛs/ (US) · /kəɹˈɛs/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/caress
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

a gentle touch or a soft, kind way of speaking to someone. It is usually a way to show love or comfort.

For teachers: a gentle, affectionate touch or a soft, soothing manner of speaking. Often used to describe physical gestures of intimacy or emotional reassurance.

## Examples

- The mother gave her child a gentle caress.
- He offered a warm caress to the old book, showing how much he valued it.
- The poet's words were a soothing caress to the weary soul, providing a moment of peace in a world of constant noise.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.