verb

hold (someone) closely in one’s arms, especially as a sign of affection.

Aunt Sophie embraced her warmly

hug,take/hold in one’s arms,hold,cuddle,clasp to one’s bosom,clasp,squeeze,clutch,seize,grab,nuzzle,caress,enfold,enclasp,encircle,enclose,envelop,entwine oneself around,canoodle,smooch,embosom