strelen
to caress; to stroke
Intermediate Verb
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Pronunciation
/ˈstreː.lən/
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Cultural Note
'Strelen' conveys gentle, tender physical touch. It is a common word in Dutch romantic poetry and songs. The noun 'streling' (caress) is equally poetic. The word can also be used figuratively, as in 'een streling voor het oog' (a feast for the eyes).
📝 Example Sentences
Hij streelde zachtjes haar haar.
He gently stroked her hair.
Ze streelde zijn wang met haar hand.
She caressed his cheek with her hand.