The verb "acariciar" means to touch someone or something gently in a loving or affectionate manner. It is commonly used to describe the act of caressing a person, an animal, or an object, often implying tenderness or emotional connection. The frequency of this word in use is moderate; it is versatile and finds usage in both oral and written contexts, although it may appear more in spoken language when discussing personal relationships or pets.
Ella decidió acariciar al gato que estaba dormido.
(She decided to caress the cat that was sleeping.)
Acariciar a un niño puede ayudarles a sentirse seguros.
(Caressing a child can help them feel secure.)
Me gusta acariciar la suave tela de este vestido.
(I like to stroke the soft fabric of this dress.)
While "acariciar" is not part of many fixed idiomatic expressions, it may appear in contexts that convey emotional connections or comfort. Here are a few expressions:
Acariciar un sueño
(To cherish a dream)
Ejemplo: Siempre ha acariciado el sueño de viajar por el mundo.
(He has always cherished the dream of traveling the world.)
Acariciar el alma
(To soothe the soul)
Ejemplo: La música de esta banda acaricia el alma.
(The music of this band soothes the soul.)
Acariciar la esperanza
(To hold on to hope)
Ejemplo: Aunque la situación es difícil, seguimos acariciando la esperanza de un futuro mejor.
(Even though the situation is difficult, we continue to hold on to hope for a better future.)
Acariciar la idea de
(To entertain the idea of)
Ejemplo: Están acariciando la idea de comprar una casa en la playa.
(They are entertaining the idea of buying a house on the beach.)
The word "acariciar" comes from the Latin "acaritia," which derives from "caritas," meaning affection or love. The transition into Spanish entails a focus on gentleness and tenderness in physical touch, reflecting its roots in affection.
Synonyms: - Stroking - Tocar (to touch) - Aprehender (to embrace)
Antonyms: - Pelear (to fight) - Golpear (to hit) - Rechazar (to reject)
This comprehensive overview of the word "acariciar" illustrates its various uses and meanings in the Spanish language, along with its cultural significance in expressing tenderness and affection.