handholding

[ hand-hohl-ding ]

/ ˈhændˌhoʊl dɪŋ /

the act of holding hands, especially as a sign or token of affection.

constant reassurance and help, especially as an indication of one's interest or confidence: We do a lot of handholding with our clients.

Origin of handholding

First recorded in 1905–10; hand + holding

Even an existing bond benefits from reviewing the fine art of hand-holding and sharing a porch swing.

What the Stars Hold for Your Week, June 26-July 2, 2011 |Starsky + Cox |June 26, 2011 |DAILY BEAST
In February 1983, Vice President was dispatched on a hand-holding mission to our allies in Europe.

My Brush With Obama's Top Spook |Christopher Buckley |November 29, 2008 |DAILY BEAST
Then he laughed, realizing that the hand-holding and the rest were no longer criminal offenses.

The Portygee |Joseph Crosby Lincoln
"Lollapalussing" was a Tweedles word and meant sentimental spooning and a hand-holding tendency.

Back at School with the Tucker Twins |Nell Speed

She's an old cat, like her pussyfooting, hand-holding husband.

Main Street |Sinclair Lewis
I've gone following after you kinder heedless-like till—till he gave me a blow twixt the eyes, with his hand-holding and kissing.

Joyce of the North Woods |Harriet T. Comstock
I wasn't napping when I saw that hand-holding and kissing from the131 top of Beacon Hill.

Joyce of the North Woods |Harriet T. Comstock