verb
schmiegen
snuggle
sich eng und weich an etwas oder an jemanden legen.
Definition & meaning
The verb schmiegen generally describes the act of pressing or nestling closely against something or someone, often in a soft, affectionate, or form-fitting manner.
- To nestle or cuddle: To lean or press oneself closely against a person or animal to show affection or seek comfort.
- To fit or cling: To conform to the shape of a surface or object. For example, a piece of clothing may fit tightly against the body, or a landscape feature might curve along a path.
- Reflexive use (sich schmiegen): This is the most common usage, where the subject curves or presses their own body against something (e.g., "Die Katze schmiegt sich an mein Bein" – The cat nestles against my leg).
Grammar & Word origin
- Grammar: It is a weak verb. Its forms are: schmiegt (present), schmiegte (past), hat geschmiegt (perfect). It is most frequently used reflexively (sich schmiegen).
- Origin: The word originates from the Middle High German smiegen, which is related to the word schmiegen meaning to wind or twist. It shares an etymological root with the English word "sneak" (as in moving smoothly or stealthily).
Synonyms & antonyms
Synonyms:
- anschmiegen (to nestle against)
- kuscheln (to cuddle)
- anlehnen (to lean against)
- einkuscheln (to snuggle)
- anliegen (to fit/rest against)
Antonyms:
Make “schmiegen” part of your vocabulary.
Build your German vocabulary with flashcards, audio and spaced repetition.
Examples
Das Kind schmiegt sich an seine Mutter.verb
The child snuggles up to his mother.
Keep exploring German
Learn words from the content you love.
Add words from websites, books and videos, then remember them with spaced repetition (SRS).
Scan for iPhone & iPad