caress

noun

1. An act of endearment; any act or expression of affection; an embracing, or touching, with tenderness.

   “He exerted himself to win by indulgence and caresses the hearts of all who were under his command.”

   “And he wooed her with his soft caresses, / Wooed her with his smile of sunshine, […]”

2. A gentle stroking or rubbing.

verb

1. (transitive)To touch or kiss lovingly; to fondle.

   “The Guacho then goes up to him, caresses him, removes the poncho from his eyes, continues to caress him; so that, according to the notion of the country, the horse becomes [...]”

   “He very likely will take a step or two in your direction. Caress him and repeat. Soon commence to snap the finger, at the same time touch him with the whip, and he will follow readily. Now takea longer bow top whip, get a little ways off and snap the finger. If he comes, caress him and repeat. Every time he comes to you, caress him and let him stand; do not drive him away.”

   “She loves being caressed by her boyfriend.”

2. (transitive)To affect as if with a caress.

   “The love and anguish in his voice caressed my mind and soul.”