nuzzle
UK[ˈnʌz(ə)l]US[ˈnʌz(ə)l]
v
To gently push or rub your nose or face against someone or something to show affection.
v
To lie close and snug; to nestle.
Etymology
The word 'nuzzle' is a native English formation, emerging in the late Middle English period. It originated as a frequentative verb based on the noun 'nose', implying a repeated or affectionate action performed with the nose. The '-le' suffix, common in English, often denotes a repeated or small action (as in 'dazzle' from 'daze' or 'sparkle' from 'spark'). Therefore, the literal sense is "to use the nose repeatedly or affectionately," which evolved into the modern meanings of rubbing with the nose or snuggling closely.
Analysis
This is a frequentative verb formed from the root 'nuzzle', which is itself derived from the noun 'nose'.
Examples
The puppy nuzzled against its owner's hand.
She nuzzled her face into the soft pillow.
The horses nuzzled each other in the field.