as in hugging
to put one's arms around and press tightly
elated team members bear-hugging everyone in sight
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Example Sentences
Recent Examples of Synonyms for bear-hugging
Verb
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The Giants wide receiver and the heptathlon world champion first went public with their relationship in November 2024, when Hall included a photo of them hugging in an Instagram carousel.—
Jordana Comiter,
PEOPLE,
10 Oct. 2025 -
Built with responsive foam cushioning, a taller stack height, and a foot-hugging knit upper, this Clifton 9 model also earned an APMA Seal of Acceptance for promoting good foot health.—
Amelia McBride,
Travel + Leisure,
7 Oct. 2025
Verb
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Bend your elbow and reach for your right hand, clasping hands together in Cow Face arms.—
Riya Davda,
Outside,
5 Oct. 2025
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Next page, clasping hands with Schweitzer in her satin, white wedding dress with a rose bouquet.—
Eric Adler,
Kansas City Star,
9 Sep. 2025
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Cite this Entry
“Bear-hugging.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/bear-hugging. Accessed 15 Oct. 2025.
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