1. holding gently and protectively, especially in one’s arms
Usage: present participle of cradle

1. the action of holding something gently and protectively
2. a framework of wooden strips used to support something
Usage: construction; technical

Examples

• She was cradling the newborn baby in her arms.
• The mother spent hours cradling her sick child.
• He sat cradling his injured wrist.
• The gentle cradling motion helped the baby fall asleep.
• The workers installed wooden cradling to support the ceiling.
• The phone was cradling between her shoulder and ear.
• The cradling of the violin requires proper technique.