snuggle

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "snuggle" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to the act of cuddling up or hugging someone or something. Example sentence: "I snuggled up next to my cat for some much-needed comfort."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

At the same time, everyone knows which side Sweden would take in a hypothetical war: there has been a long tradition of collaboration in intelligence matters, and its armed forces snuggle as close to Nato as they can; Sweden is represented on more than 150 Nato committees, even if this figure represents only a fraction of Nato's formidable capacity to deploy committees.

The Guardian - Opinion

Insert understated heart-warming pre-credits couch snuggle here.

The Guardian - Film

So European parties snuggle as closely as ever to businesses.

The Economist

Like any politician, he has to snuggle up to all sorts".

The Economist

They had been counting on Serbia's reformers to lay to rest the ghosts of ultra-nationalism and in due course to cut a deal over the "final status" of Kosovo (see article) which would accommodate everybody in the Balkans and enable the whole region to snuggle closer to the West.

The Economist

Others think it is time to move on: if BP, Britain's largest company, can snuggle up to Rosneft, Russia's best-connected one, why can't politicians be cordial and constructive too.

The Economist

But how you snuggle up in your duvet could suggest more about your relationship than you might think.

Independent

Equally snug was the faux fur-covered interior at Le Coup de Coeur, where you can snuggle under blankets and watch the antics on the outdoor ice-skating rink from the rear terrace.

Independent

She's not about to snuggle up to Justin Bieber or Harry Styles like almost every other female pop star her age…  "Yuck!

Independent

I've begged off story time because my kids don't like craning their necks to see the pages, and I find it maddening not to be able to snuggle with them in bed.

Independent

And when it's cold, you can have my pyjama top, and I'll jus' snuggle.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "snuggle" to evoke a sense of warmth, comfort, and affection in your writing. It's particularly effective when describing moments of physical closeness and emotional connection.

Common error

While "snuggle" is a perfectly acceptable and common word, avoid overusing it in formal or professional writing. In such contexts, opt for more neutral terms like "draw close" or "associate with" depending on the intended meaning.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "snuggle" is as an intransitive verb, describing the action of drawing oneself or someone else close for warmth, comfort, or affection. It can also function as a noun, referring to an affectionate hug. As Ludwig AI also points out, it's a common word in the English language.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Science

6%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "snuggle" is a versatile and commonly used term to describe getting close for warmth, affection, or comfort. Functioning primarily as an intransitive verb or a noun, its informal register makes it suitable for casual and intimate settings, as affirmed by Ludwig AI. While perfectly correct, be mindful of overusing it in formal writing. Consider alternatives like "cuddle" or "nestle" for similar meanings. Examples from Ludwig highlight its prevalence in News & Media, reflecting its broad applicability in expressing moments of closeness and comfort.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cuddle

A direct synonym, emphasizing warmth and affection in close physical contact.

cuddle close

Highlights the act of cuddling with added emphasis on physical proximity.

snuggle up

An extension of "snuggle", indicating the act of getting into a comfortable position for cuddling.

nestle

Implies a comfortable and secure positioning, often within something or against someone.

nest

Similar to 'nestle', evoking a sense of settling comfortably and securely.

huddle

Suggests drawing close together, often for warmth or protection.

cosy up

Emphasizes creating a feeling of warmth, comfort, and intimacy.

embrace

Indicates a warm and loving hug, highlighting affection.

draw near

Emphasizes the action of coming closer, not specifically for cuddling but implying intimacy.

cling to

Implies holding on tightly, often for comfort or security.

FAQs

How can I use "snuggle" in a sentence?

You can use "snuggle" to describe the act of getting close to someone or something for warmth or affection, such as, "The children like to snuggle with their parents before bedtime."

What are some alternatives to "snuggle"?

Alternatives to "snuggle" include "cuddle", "nestle", or "huddle", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "snuggle up"?

Yes, "snuggle up" is a common and grammatically correct phrasal verb that means to get into a comfortable and cozy position, often with someone or something.

What's the difference between "snuggle" and "cuddle"?

"Snuggle" and "cuddle" are often used interchangeably, but "snuggle" can sometimes imply a greater sense of seeking warmth and comfort, while "cuddle" focuses more on affection.