Definition of: caress

(kə·res′) noun
A gentle, affectionate movement; an expression of affection or attachment by touching, as by patting, embracing, or stroking.
—v.t. To touch or handle lovingly; fondle; embrace; pet. [<F caresse <Ital. carezza <L carus dear]
—ca·ress′er noun
—ca·ress′ing adjective
—ca·ress′ive adjective Synonyms (verb): coddle, embrace, flatter, fondle, kiss, pamper, pet. To caress is less than to embrace. Fondling is always by touch; caressing may be also by words, or other tender and pleasing attentions. See PAMPER.