Nestle
/ˈnɛsəl/
verbB2
Definition
To nestle means to move or settle into a comfortable, protected, or cozy position, usually close to something else. It often describes how people, animals, or things rest gently in a small or safe place.
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See It in Action
To settle or lie closely and comfortably near or within something
- •The kitten nestled in the blanket to keep warm.
- •The small town nestles between the mountains.
- •She nestles her head against his shoulder when they watch movies.
To place something carefully and snugly
- •The child nestles the doll in the cradle.
- •The house nestles among tall trees, hidden from the road.
Make It Stick
- ✓Think of "nestle" like "sit" or "lie down," but with the idea of being very close and comfortable, like hugging a soft pillow
- ✓Picture a small bird sitting safely inside its nest, tucked in gently and warmly
- ✓It's the feeling when you curl up in bed or snuggle next to a friend or pet for comfort
- ✓Sounds like "nest-uhl" → imagine a small bird making a soft nest where it can rest safely
- ✓Think of a child nestling into their mother's arms for warmth and safety
- ✓NOT like "sit" (just sitting anywhere), "nestle" means settling in a cozy, protected way
- ✓NOT like "hide" (to stay away from view), "nestle" is about comfort and closeness, not just hiding
- ✓NOT like "rest" (general pause), "nestle" shows a gentle, careful, and warm settling
Try Other Words
- •Snuggle: to settle closely and warmly (Use when emphasizing warmth and affection)
- •Settle: to rest or stay in a place (Use when focusing on staying in one place comfortably)
- •Cuddle: to hold closely for comfort (Use when physical closeness with another person or animal is involved)
Unboxing
- •Word parts: No clear prefix or suffix; root word "nestle" relates to "nest"
- •Etymology: From Old English "nestle," related to "nest," meaning a place where birds lay eggs and rest
- •Historical development: Originally meant to build or lie in a nest; now also means to settle comfortably in any small, protected place
- •Modern usage: Used for people, animals, or objects resting closely and comfortably near something else, often with a feeling of safety or warmth
Reflect & Connect
•How do you feel when you nestle into a comfortable place? Can you describe a time when you did this?
•Can "nestle" be used to describe places as well as people or animals? How does this change the meaning?
Fill in the blanks
1.The baby bird nestles ___ its mother’s feathers to stay warm and safe.
2.When the sun goes down, the small village nestles ___ the hills, hidden from view.
3.She nestles her head ___ his chest, feeling calm and secure.
4.Unlike just lying down, to nestle means to settle ___ and comfortably.
5.The cat nestled ___ the soft cushion, purring happily.
6.Houses that nestle ___ the forest often feel peaceful and quiet.
7.After a long day, he likes to nestle ___ his favorite chair with a good book.