cradling

[kreyd-l-ing] / ˈkreɪd l ɪŋ /

VERB

hold in arms; nurture

Synonyms

STRONG

lull nestle nourish nurse rock support tend

WEAK

watch over

Antonyms

STRONG

abandon ignore neglect

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Martin, the author of the Game of Thrones books, cradling a fluffy wolf-like pup in his arms.

From Los Angeles Times • May 21, 2026

To the left, “Painting and Sculpture” clutches a palette while cradling a miniaturized replica of the Dionysus torso from the Parthenon.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 8, 2026

Trump's spokeswoman -- who is best known for her acid put-downs of journalists -- posted a picture of herself in a nursery, cradling her baby daughter to her chest.

From Barron's • May 7, 2026

Sweatband cradling his brow and lion inked on his back, the 31-year-old has boldly written his own legacy.

From BBC • Oct. 9, 2025

Torak curled into a ball, cradling his throbbing arm and thinking bitterly what a mess he’d made of things.

From "Wolf Brother" by Michelle Paver