Hold in affection (6)
I believe the answer is:
cuddle
This clue could be a double definition.
'hold' is the first definition.
(cuddle is a kind of hold)
'affection' is the second definition.
Although both the answer and definition are singular nouns, I don't see how one could define the other.
'in' is the link.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for cuddle that I've seen before include "Close, affectionate embrace" , "Group (of ships) travelling together" , "Hold close, pet" , "Lie close and snug, affectionately" , "Hold close, caress" .)