streicheln
Translation
to stroke, to caress, to pet
Examples
Sie streichelt die Katze.
She is petting the cat.
Er streichelte ihr sanft über die Wange.
He gently stroked her cheek.
Grammar Patterns
((j-n/et4)) to stroke/pet (sb./sth.) The child is petting the dog.
((j-m)) ((über+4)) to stroke (sb.'s) (sth.) The mother strokes the child's head.
Similar Words
Synonyms: kraulen, liebkosen; Antonyms: schlagen, stoßen
Etymology
Diminutive of 'streichen' (to stroke, to paint). The '-eln' suffix often indicates a repeated, gentle action.
Memory Tips
Imagine 'stretching' your hand out to 'stroke' a pet. The sound is soft, like the action.