ˈfänd ə l verb
( fondled ; fondled ; fondling -nd( ə )liŋ, -lēŋ, ÷-nl- ; fondles )
Etymology: fond (II) + -le
transitive verb
1. obsolete : to treat with doting indulgence : pamper , coddle
2. : to handle tenderly, lovingly, or lingeringly : treat caressingly : caress
the nurse fondled the child
fondled her jewels
fondling his favorite phrase
fondling the memory of her past goodness to him — Liam O'Flaherty
intransitive verb
: to show affection or desire by caressing