fondlings
Tender stroking gestures
Fondlings is the plural of fondling, which can mean either the act of touching affectionately or erotically, or a person who is fondled—especially a cherished child or pet.
The first sense is more common: His fondlings became increasingly unwelcome.
The second is archaic and literary: The old woman's fondlings gathered at her knee.
nurture
Attending to dependents
- maternalOf or like mothers
- paternalOf or from father
- fosteringPromoting development or growth
- rearingNurturing to maturity
cradling · swaddling · soothing · comforting · protecting · sheltering · tending · minding
caregiving
Attending to dependents
rearing · cradling · swaddling · soothing · comforting · protecting · sheltering · tending · minding · watching
caress
Gentle loving touch
nuzzle · stroke · pet · hug · hold · touch · cling · nestle · squeeze · clasp