Stroking

/ˈstroʊ.kɪŋ/

Meaning & Definition

verb
Present participle of the verb stroke; to move one’s hand with gentle pressure over something.
She was stroking the cat softly while it purred in her lap.
To strike or hit lightly; to move in a manner that creates a soothing effect.
He was stroking the surface of the water with his fingers as he sat by the pond.
To caress or fondle in a gentle manner.
The mother was stroking her baby’s head to help him fall asleep.
To express approval or admiration in a flattering way.
The manager was stroking the employee’s ego with constant praise for her performance.

Etymology

Derived from the Old English 'strokan', meaning to stroke or touch.

Common Phrases and Expressions

stroking one's ego
To flatter someone to boost their self-esteem.
get stroked
To receive affection or praise.
stroked out
To be exhausted or drained, often used informally.

Related Words

petting
To stroking an animal for affection.
grooming
The act of cleaning or maintaining an animal's coat or feathers.
caress
A gentle or loving touch.

Slang Meanings

Stroking in a playful or suggestive context.
He was just stroking her ego to get what he wanted.
Using 'stroking' to refer to excessive flattery.
Everyone knows he's just stroking to get on the boss's good side.