Fondle/ˈfɑːndl/ Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Affectionate Gesture Used to express care or love towards pets, family, or close friends. The mother fondled her baby's cheeks with joy. Pro Tip 2/3Context Sensitive Appropriate in intimate or private settings, can be awkward or misunderstood in public. At the family reunion, she fondled her aging dog's ears. Pro Tip 3/3Gentle Touch Focus on the softness and gentleness of the action, not rough handling. He fondled the delicate silk scarf before buying it.