Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Caress \Ca*ress"\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. {Caressed}; p. pr. & vb.
   n. {Caressing}.] [F. caresser, fr. It. carezzare, fr. carezza
   caress. See {Caress}., n.]
   To treat with tokens of fondness, affection, or kindness; to
   touch or speak to in a loving or endearing manner; to fondle.

         The lady caresses the rough bloodhoun.   --Sir W.
                                                  Scott.

   Syn: To foundle; embrace; pet; coddle; court; flatter.

   Usage: {Caress}, {Fondle}. ``We caress by words or actions;
          we fondle by actions only.'' --Crabb.