acurrucarse
/akuruˈkaɾse/
The English phrase snuggling is translated into Spanish as acurrucarse.
How does it change in a sentence?
The verb acurrucarse is reflexive, meaning the action is performed upon oneself. In the third person singular present tense, the reflexive pronoun se is placed before the conjugated verb, as in se acurruca.
How do you pronounce it?
/akuruˈkaɾse/
Did you know?
- The term apretujarse, often used for snuggling for warmth, can also describe the uncomfortable feeling of being squeezed in a crowded subway or bus.
- In some regions, using arrimarse to mean 'snuggle' can be risky, as it can also be interpreted as 'leaning' or 'pushing' against someone in a way that might be perceived as too aggressive or unwanted.
- To describe the affection given during a snuggle, Spanish speakers use mimar, which doesn't just mean 'to cuddle' but implies 'spoiling' someone with love and attention.
Examples in context
- Después de un largo día, me encantaría acurrucarme contigo en el sofá.After a long day, I would love to cuddle up with you on the couch.
- Me encanta cómo nos arrumacamos en la cama mientras vemos una película.I love how we snuggle up in bed while watching a movie.
- El gato se acurruca en el sofá.The cat snuggles on the sofa.
- El gato prefiere acurrucarse en mi regazo.The cat prefers snuggling in my lap.
Example conversation
Sofía and Alejandro are relaxing in the living room.
- SofíaHace mucho frío esta noche, Alejandro.It is very cold tonight, Alejandro.
- AlejandroTienes razón, busquemos una manta.You're right, let's find a blanket.
- Sofía¿Quieres acurrucarse un rato conmigo?Do you want to snuggle with me for a while?
- AlejandroSí, Sofía, me parece una idea perfecta.Yes, Sofía, that sounds like a perfect idea.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry acurrucarse, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
