n.
Pronunciation: k ə - ' res
Function: transitive verb
Etymology: French caresser, from Italian carezzare, from carezza
Date: 1598
1 : to treat with tokens of fondness, affection, or kindness : CHERISH
2 a : to touch or stroke lightly in a loving or endearing manner b : to touch or affect as if with a caress <echoes that caress the ear>
– ca · ress · er noun
– ca · ress · ing · ly \ k ə - ' re-si ŋ -l ē \ adverb