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Kissing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ’‹
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kissing

[หˆkษชsษชล‹ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

physical affection

Kissing is the act of pressing one's lips against the lips or other body parts of another person. It is often a gesture of affection or a means of expressing love. Kissing can also serve various social purposes, such as greeting, congratulating, or expressing sympathy. The meaning and significance of a kiss can vary greatly across different cultures and contexts.

Synonyms

osculate, peck, smooch.

Examples of usage

  • They shared a passionate kiss.
  • She greeted him with a quick kiss on the cheek.
  • Kissing is a common way to show affection.
  • He kissed her softly goodbye.
Context #2 | Noun

act of affection

A kiss is a physical act of pressing one's lips against another person. It can signify various emotions, including love, friendship, or respect. Kisses can differ in intensity and context, ranging from a light peck to a deep, passionate kiss. The act of kissing is prevalent in human interaction and serves both personal and cultural functions.

Synonyms

embrace, peck, smooch.

Examples of usage

  • They exchanged a sweet kiss.
  • A kiss on the cheek is a common greeting.
  • The couple shared a romantic kiss under the stars.
  • A kiss can convey deep emotions.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The practice of kissing may date back to ancient civilizations where it was seen as a sign of respect and greeting.
  • Different cultures have varied practices; for instance, the Romans were known for kissing on both cheeks as a form of social greeting.

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, kissing is an important aspect of romantic relationships and is often seen during weddings.
  • In some countries, kissing on the cheeks is a common greeting among friends, showcasing warmth and familiarity.

Psychology

  • Kissing can release hormones like oxytocin, which is often called the 'love hormone' because it strengthens emotional bonds.
  • Studies suggest that people who kiss frequently report higher levels of satisfaction in their relationships.

Biology

  • The lips contain a high number of nerve endings, making kissing a pleasurable and intimate act.
  • Kissing can help improve health by boosting immunity as partners exchange microbes, which can enhance disease resistance.

Literature and Film

  • Kissing has been a recurring motif in literature and cinema, often symbolizing love, desire, or farewell.
  • Classic romantic stories, like Romeo and Juliet, often highlight the kiss as a pivotal moment in relationships.

Origin of 'kissing'

The word 'kissing' originates from the Old English 'cyssan', which means 'to kiss'. The term has roots in Proto-Germanic *kussลnฤ…, meaning 'to kiss', and is connected to similar terms in other Germanic languages, such as 'kรผssen' in German and 'kossa' in Swedish. The act of kissing has been a part of human interaction for centuries, serving various purposes, from expressing affection to symbolizing greetings and farewells. Historically, kisses have held different meanings in cultures around the world; in some societies, a kiss on the hand is a sign of respect, while in others, a kiss on the forehead might denote a familial bond. The evolution of the practice of kissing and its associated terminology highlights its importance in social interactions and emotional expression among people.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,044, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.