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cuddle up

A2 informal inseparable intransitive
In simple words

To get close to someone and hold them to feel warm and loved.

Literal meaning: To cuddle (embrace closely) while moving up close to someone.

Meanings

1 A2 informal

To move close to someone and hold them, seeking or giving warmth, comfort, or affection.

"The children cuddled up to their father on the sofa as they watched the film."

Grammar: inseparable
2 A2 informal

To settle into a warm, comfortable, close position with another person or animal, especially in cold weather.

"We cuddled up under a thick blanket as the snow began to fall outside."

Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes

Warm and affectionate connotation. Used between romantic partners, family members, friends, and with pets. Very common in everyday informal speech. Often followed by 'to' or 'with'.

Commonly used with

blanket sofa fire partner pet children

Forms

Base
cuddle up
I/you/we/they
3rd person
cuddles up
he/she/it
Past simple
cuddled up
yesterday
Past participle
cuddled up
have + pp
-ing form
cuddling up
continuous

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Synonyms

snuggle up nestle up curl up with huddle up embrace nuzzle up

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