v. i. [ imp. & p. p. Nestled p. pr. & vb. n. Nestling ] [ AS. nestlian. ] 1. To make and occupy a nest; to nest. [ Obs. ] [ 1913 Webster ] The kingfisher . . . nestles in hollow banks. L'Estrange. [ 1913 Webster ] 2. To lie close and snug, as a bird in her nest; to cuddle up; to settle, as in a nest; to harbor; to take shelter. [ 1913 Webster ] Their purpose was to fortify in some strong place of the wild country, and there nestle till succors came. Bacon. [ 1913 Webster ] The children were nestled all snug in their beds
While visions of sugarplums danced in their heads. Clement Clarke Moore (A Visit From St. Nicholas, (a poem [ 1823 ]) also called The Night Before Christmas). [ PJC ] 3. To move about in one's place, like a bird when shaping the interior of her nest or a young bird getting close to the parent; as, a child nestles. [ 1913 Webster ] | 