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.

He is cradling the ball in his left hand and warding off impending tacklers with his right, a striking bronze symbol of a university’s resilience and strength.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 20, 2025

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

The second image shows Meghan tenderly cradling the princess as a newborn following her birth in 2021.

From BBC • Jun. 4, 2025

“Next chapter, motherhood,” the 2012 Miss Universe wrote on social media, captioning two photos of herself sitting and cradling her growing belly in a flowing white gown.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 10, 2025

“So you pests survived,” said Marco, cradling the box greedily.

From "The Boy Who Met a Whale" by Nizrana Farook