German word

kosen

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈkoːzn̩/

Meaning

  • verbcuddle

Example

Wir kosen das Baby.

We cuddle the baby.

Illustration for kosen (cuddle)

More examples

Viele Menschen kosen ihr Haustier abends.

Many people cuddle their pet in the evening.

Core concept

Tender touch and loving words create a small scene of shared affection between close companions.

Common phrases

  • jemanden kosen

    cuddle someone

  • das Haustier kosen

    cuddle a pet

  • ein Kind kosen

    cuddle a child

Similar words

streicheln: Gentle stroking that soothes and comforts another person or animal.
umarmen: A close embrace using both arms to show affection.
küssen: A kiss on the lips or cheek expressing affection or fondness.
verwöhnen: Special care and indulgence that fulfills someone's wishes.

Definition in German

jemanden durch zärtliche Berührung oder liebevolle Worte Zuneigung zeigen

Word origin

German kosen developed from the Middle High German form kosen and preserved its older link between affectionate words and gentle physical contact.

Usage tips

  • Unlike English cuddle, kosen can refer to affectionate words as well as physical closeness, so it is not limited to bodily contact.

Other meanings

  • petverb
  • caressverb

Opposites

Related words

  • der Kosenamepet namenoun
  • das Kosencuddlingnoun

Word lists with this word