First Known Use: 1530
Dictionary
nuzzle
nuzzle
verb nuz·zle \ˈnə-zəl\
: to gently push or rub your nose or face against (someone or something) to show affection
nuz·zlednuz·zling \ˈnəz-liŋ, ˈnə-zə-\
Full Definition of NUZZLE
intransitive verb
1
: to work with or as if with the nose; especially : to root, rub, or snuff something
2
: to lie close or snug
transitive verb
1
: to root, rub, or touch with or as if with the nose
2
: to rub or push gently (as one's face) against something
See nuzzle defined for English-language learners
See nuzzle defined for kids
Examples of NUZZLE
- The dog nuzzled my leg.
- He nuzzled into her neck.
Origin of NUZZLE
Middle English noselen to bring the nose toward the ground, from nose
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up nuzzle? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).