1. Affectionate play (or foreplay without contact with the genital organs)
   "The couple engaged in gentle petting while watching a movie";
   - caressing, cuddling, fondling, hugging, kissing, necking, snuggling, first base [US, informal]

1. Stroke or caress gently
   "pet the lamb"
    
2. Stroke or caress in an erotic manner, as during lovemaking
   "They petted in the back seat of the car"

Derived forms: pettings

Type of: arousal, caress, fondle, foreplay, stimulation

Encyclopedia: Petting, Germany