n. [ F. caresse, It. carezza, LL. caritia dearness, fr. L. carus dear. See Charity. ] An act of endearment; any act or expression of affection; an embracing, or touching, with tenderness. [ 1913 Webster ]
Wooed her with his soft caresses. Langfellow. [ 1913 Webster ]
He exerted himself to win by indulgence and caresses the hearts of all who were under his command. Macaulay. [ 1913 Webster ]
v. t.
The lady caresses the rough bloodhound. Sir W. Scott.
n.
adv. In caressing manner. [ 1913 Webster ]