Petted

To stroke or caress an animal or person affectionately; to show fondness or affection through gentle physical contact. The act of petting typically involves using the hands to gently touch and rub the subject, often accompanied by soft words or gestures of love and care. This can provide comfort, reassurance, and a sense of connection between the giver and the receiver. It also often involves a display of love and affection for an animal or person in some kind of manner, either playful or otherwise. The act of petting can vary based on the specific receiver, such as a playful puppy, a cat, a child, or a significant other. It’s a simple gesture with complex social and emotional implications.

Petted meaning with examples

• Sarah returned home after a long day and immediately rushed to the couch, petted her cat, Mittens. She gently stroked its soft fur while whispering sweet nothings into its ear, relieved to feel the calming weight of the animal pressed against her leg as it purred happily, seemingly reciprocating the affection. This comforted her after a long day of work.
• The little girl, shy at first, eventually warmed up to the friendly golden retriever. She tentatively petted its fluffy head, her initial apprehension melting away as the dog leaned into her touch. A wide grin spread across her face as she experienced the simple joy of interacting with the gentle giant, an experience her mother loved to watch her enjoy.
• During his stressful exam season, John always found solace in visiting the local animal shelter. He spent hours petted all the dogs, finding the warmth and connection very helpful during these times. He was always happy to see all his favorite dogs at the shelter, finding it very rewarding to get to comfort his furry friends during their time of need.
• Lost and scared, the frightened child, found comfort after a kind stranger petted their head and spoke softly to them. The reassurance of the gentle touch and calming words helped calm the child, reducing their fear and helping them to feel safer in the unfamiliar situation, making the kind stranger's simple act of kindness a moment of genuine comfort.