verb

acariciar

pet · caress

Tocar algo o a alguien con suavidad y ternura para mostrar cariño o afecto.

Definition & meaning

Acariciar is a verb that means to stroke, caress, or pet. It is used to describe the act of touching someone or something gently, usually to express affection or tenderness.

Beyond the physical act, it has two additional common meanings:

To touch lightly or graze: Used to describe something that moves across a surface without applying pressure (e.g., the wind caressing the trees).
To cherish or entertain an idea or hope: Used figuratively to describe thinking about or considering a wish, dream, or plan with fondness or desire.

Grammar & Word origin

Acariciar is a regular verb ending in -ar. It is formed by the prefix a- (meaning "towards" or "to make") and the noun caricia (caress). The suffix -ar transforms the concept of a caress into the action of performing one.