as in hugs
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-hugs
Verb
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Not only does the material ensure comfort and support, but the unique design, with thick straps that curve to the exact shape of my arches and a cupped heel, creates a glove-like fit that hugs my feet.—
Rachel Trujillo,
PEOPLE,
25 Apr. 2026 -
Slim planter beds along fences operate on the same principle, replacing bulky garden beds with streamlined growing space that hugs the perimeter and keeps the center of the garden open and breathable.—
Lauren Jarvis-Gibson,
Kansas City Star,
22 Apr. 2026
Verb
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Lindo laughs, clasps his hands together and raises them.—
Glenn Whipp,
Los Angeles Times,
11 Feb. 2026
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Keeping that hardshell closed is a pair of wide, beefy aluminum latches with a lower swing arm that clasps to a closure bar via a pair of hooks.—
New Atlas,
New Atlas,
13 Dec. 2025
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Cite this Entry
“Bear-hugs.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/bear-hugs. Accessed 26 Apr. 2026.
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