To handle or touch lovingly, affectionately, or tenderly. Can also refer to inappropriate touching in a sexual context.
Derived from the obsolete word 'fond' meaning 'to be foolishly tender' (16th century). Originally 'fond' meant 'foolish' in Middle English, but evolved to mean 'affectionate' by the 1600s, giving rise to 'fondle' as a back-formation.
The word 'fond' originally meant 'foolish' - so 'fondle' literally started as 'to act foolishly tender.' This reflects how excessive affection was once viewed as a kind of pleasant foolishness, which is rather charming when you think about it.
Despite neutral etymology, 'fondle' carries gendered risk through its frequent use in describing inappropriate touch in male-perpetrated contexts. Sexual violence literature disproportionately uses this word for non-consensual contact with women and children.
Use 'touch', 'caress', or 'handle' in innocent contexts to avoid ambiguity. Reserve 'fondle' only for neutral animal care or fabric handling if clarity demands it.
["touch","caress","handle","stroke"]
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