Word
petting
Phoneticspet·ting, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈpɛtɪŋ/
UK/pˈɛtɪŋ/
Uncountable noun
Definition
n. the act of touching or stroking an animal in a kind and gentle way. It can also refer to physical affection between people.
n. the act of stroking or fondling an animal or person affectionately. In a human context, it often refers to amorous physical contact that does not involve full sexual intercourse.
Examples
“The dog really enjoys a bit of petting behind the ears.”
“The children were allowed some supervised petting with the rabbits at the local farm.”
“While the zoo encourages observation, they strictly prohibit the petting of any animals to ensure the safety of both the visitors and the wildlife.”
Examples
simple
“The dog really enjoys a bit of petting behind the ears.”
contextual
“The children were allowed some supervised petting with the rabbits at the local farm.”
complex
“While the zoo encourages observation, they strictly prohibit the petting of any animals to ensure the safety of both the visitors and the wildlife.”
Usage
Typically used as a gerund noun to describe the activity itself.
Word family
NOUN
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
- アルファベット
- 読み方の一覧 →
QR code
englishreference.com/q/petting