cuddle

noun

1. (US)An intimate physical embrace, typically while lying (or sitting): a snuggle, an instance of lying together snugly, as one might with a partner (more intimate than a hug, and typically of longer duration).

   “I'm so impatient / I can't stand the wait / When will I get my cuddle?”

2. (UK)An affectionate embrace, a hug, such as is given to family members and close friends (less intimate than a snuggle, and typically of shorter duration).

   “Give me a cuddle, Paul; it'll cheer you up.”

verb

1. (US, intransitive, transitive)To lie together snugly (with someone), in an intimate physical embrace; to snuggle.

   “The young lovers cuddled on the couch.”

2. (UK, intransitive, transitive)To embrace (someone) affectionately; to hug (someone) closely.
3. (transitive)To cradle (e.g. a baby) in one's arms so as to give comfort, warmth.

   “She cuddled the infant before bedtime.”

   “I'm cold; can you roll over here and cuddle me, honey?”

4. To lie close or snug; to crouch; to nestle.

   “She cuddles low behind the brake; / Nor would she stay, nor dares she fly.”