껴안다
kkyeoanda[k͈jʌ̹a̠nt͈a̠]
The English word 'cuddle' is translated into Korean as 껴안다 (kkyeoanda).
껴안다 is used to describe embracing, hugging or lying together snugly. It is a general term that covers everything from a quick hug to a long, lingering embrace. If you want to specifically emphasize a snug or tight cuddle, you can use the expression 꼭 껴안다, which adds the adverb 꼭 (tightly/surely) to the verb.
Meaning: intransitive: embrace, lie together snugly (verb)
Which one should you use?
While 껴안다 can be used for any type of cuddle or hug, the phrase 꼬옥 안아주다 is an informal way to convey the specific feeling of embracing or hugging someone very tightly.
How does it change in a sentence?
To express that you 'cuddled' in the past tense, use the form 껴안았어요. In standard polite speech, the base verb 껴안다 conjugates to 껴안아요.
How do you pronounce it?
kkyeoanda
Did you know?
- In modern Korean slang, the term 껌딱지 (gum sticker) is used to describe a person who cuddles or clings to their partner constantly.
- In romantic contexts, Koreans often use the term 스킨십 (skinship) to describe any form of physical intimacy, including cuddling, though this is a Konglish word not used in English.
- Adding the auxiliary verb 주다 to create 안아주다 transforms the cuddle into a 'gift' or a favor being given to the other person.
Examples in context
- 우리는 서로 꼭 껴안았어요.We hugged each other tightly.
- 아이를 따뜻하게 껴안다.a-i-reul tta-tteut-ha-ge kkyeo-an-da.Embrace the child warmly.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry 껴안다, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
