nuzzle

To push or thrust (the nose or snout, face or muzzle, or head, or an object) against or into something.

To rub or touch (someone or something) with the nose, face, etc., or an object.

Often followed by in or into: to press or push the nose or snout, mouth, face, etc., against or into someone or something; to touch someone or something with the nose or snout, etc.

Chiefly followed by up or with: to press affectionately against someone or something; to nestle, to snuggle.

(figurative) To come into close contact with someone or something.

Followed by down: to settle or lie comfortably and snugly in a bed, nest, etc.; to nestle.

Chiefly of an animal: to dig (something, especially food) out of the ground using the nose or snout; to root.

Chiefly of an animal: to push the nose or snout into the ground to dig for something, especially food; to root, to rootle.

[with oneself] (literary, no longer used) To care for (someone) affectionately; to hold dear (someone); to cherish, to nurse; also, to provide (someone or something) a comfortable and snug place to settle or lie (compare etymology 1, verb etymology 1, verb sense 2.3).

[with oneself] (no longer used) Often followed by up or with: to nurture or train (oneself or someone) to act a certain way, have certain beliefs, etc.

[with oneself] (no longer used) To train (a dog or hawk) to attack prey.

[with oneself] (no longer used) Chiefly followed by up: to bring up (someone); to foster, to rear; also, to educate (someone); to train.

(no longer used, rare) To feel or probe with the fingers.

An act of nuzzling (all verb senses).