# stroking

/ˈstɹoʊkɪŋ/ (US) · /stɹˈəʊkɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/stroking
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

to move your hand gently over a surface, usually over skin or fur. You do this to show love or to make a person or animal feel calm.

For teachers: moving the hand or an object over a surface with gentle pressure and a smooth motion. Often used to describe an action intended to soothe or show affection.

## Examples

- She is stroking the cat while she watches television.
- The mother was gently stroking her child's hair until the toddler finally fell asleep.
- By rhythmically stroking the dog's ears, the vet was able to keep the animal calm enough to perform the examination without using heavy sedation.

## Usage notes

- The verb is transitive and requires a direct object, typically a person or an animal.

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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.