What does stroking mean?

Pronunciation

/ˈstrōkiNG/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Phrase

Definition

To stroke means to gently and affectionately touch or caress someone or something, often in a soothing or comforting manner.

Examples

• The mother stroked her child’s hair to calm him down.
• The cat purred contentedly as I stroked its soft fur.

Synonyms

• Cares
• Pets

Antonyms

• Hit
• Slap

Additional Information

Stroking can be a calming and soothing action, often used to comfort and reassure individuals. It can also be a way to express affection and love. In animals, stroking can be a way to calm them down and make them feel more relaxed.

In some cultures, stroking is seen as a sign of respect and admiration, while in others, it may be viewed as an intimate or invasive act. It’s essential to consider the context and the individual’s boundaries when engaging in stroking.

The word “stroke” comes from the Old English word “stracan,” meaning to stroke or smooth. Over time, the phrase “stroking” evolved to convey the act of gentle and affectionate touch.

Usage Notes

When using the phrase “stroking” in everyday conversation, be mindful of the context and the individual’s comfort level with physical touch. In formal writing, use the phrase in moderation and avoid using it in inappropriate or suggestive contexts.

Cultural References

Stroking has appeared in various forms of art and literature, from gentle loving touches in romance novels to soothing strokes in calming ASMR videos.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

• Stroke someone’s ego
• Stroke of luck

Related Words or Phrases

• Pat
• Cradle

Collocations

• Stroke gently
• Stroke softly

Frequency of Use

The phrase “stroking” is moderately used in everyday conversation, particularly in contexts related to comfort, affection, and soothing.

Common Misspellings

• Stroking
• Strokin