The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:

Caress \Ca*ress"\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Caressed
   (k[.a]*r[e^]st"); p. pr. & vb. n. Caressing.] [F. caresser,
   fr. It. carezzare, fr. carezza caress. See Caress., n.]
   To treat with tokens of fondness, affection, or kindness; to
   touch or speak to in a loving or endearing manner; to fondle.
   [1913 Webster]

         The lady caresses the rough bloodhound.  --Sir W.
                                                  Scott.

   Syn: To fondle; embrace; pet; coddle; court; flatter.

   Usage: Caress, Fondle. "We caress by words or actions; we
          fondle by actions only." --Crabb.
          [1913 Webster] caressing