Smooch Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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smooch

[smuːtʃ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

romantic gesture

To kiss and cuddle amorously.

Synonyms

cuddle, kiss, snuggle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
smooch

This word is often used in informal or playful contexts to describe a long or affectionate kiss. It carries a friendly, sometimes quirky, tone.

  • They shared a smooch under the mistletoe
  • Let's give Grandma a goodbye smooch
kiss

A general term for pressing one's lips against someone or something. Can be used in both formal and informal contexts to describe a variety of kisses, from brief pecks on the cheek to romantic kisses.

  • He gave her a gentle kiss on the forehead
  • They kissed passionately at the end of the movie
cuddle

Commonly used to describe the comforting act of holding someone closely in your arms. It usually implies warmth, comfort, and affection and is often used in the context of family or close relationships.

  • The children love to cuddle with their teddy bears before bed
  • They sat by the fire and had a nice cuddle
snuggle

Usually describes the act of settling or lying close together in a comfortable and loving way. Similar to 'cuddle,' it often implies warmth and affection, and is commonly used in the context of relaxation and comfort.

  • They snuggled under the blanket to watch a movie
  • The puppy snuggled up to its owner

Examples of usage

  • He leaned over to smooch her cheek.
  • They smooched under the moonlight.
Context #2 | Noun

informal

A kiss.

Synonyms

kiss, peck, snog.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
smooch

Common in informal and casual settings, often used to describe long, affectionate kisses.

  • 'They were smooching under the stars
  • ' 'After the prom, they shared a smooch
  • '
kiss

A general term that can be used in any context to describe the act of touching with the lips as a sign of love, affection, or greeting.

  • 'She gave her grandma a goodbye kiss
  • ' 'They shared a kiss on their wedding day
  • '
peck

Refers to a quick, light kiss, often used to describe platonic or less romantic gestures.

  • 'She gave him a peck on the cheek before leaving
  • ' 'Just give me a quick peck on the lips
  • '
snog

Primarily used in British English, it describes more intense and extended kissing, often in a way that suggests a lack of decorum and can sometimes have a slightly negative or casual connotation.

  • 'They were caught snogging behind the school
  • ' 'He snogged her passionately in the club
  • '

Examples of usage

  • She gave him a quick smooch on the lips.
  • He greeted her with a smooch on the cheek.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • Smooch has been popularized in various songs and movies, representing romance and affection.
  • The term often appears in romantic comedies, setting a lighthearted and affectionate tone.

Psychology

  • Kissing, or smooching, is associated with emotional bonding and the release of feel-good chemicals like oxytocin.
  • Different cultures have diverse customs surrounding kissing, which reflects varying attitudes toward affection and intimacy.

Literature

  • Many poets and authors use the word 'smooch' to evoke tender, playful, and romantic moments in their works.
  • In children's literature, smooches are often depicted as acts of love between parents and their children.

Sociolinguistics

  • Regional variations can affect how the word is perceived, with some places using it more informally among friends.
  • Smooch is often seen as a lighter, more playful word compared to more formal terms for kissing.

Origin of 'smooch'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'smooch' comes from the early 20th century, believed to be an alteration of 'smack,' which refers to a loud kiss.
  • It may be influenced by the sound made during kissing, which emphasizes its playful character.

The word 'smooch' originated in the early 20th century as an informal term for a kiss. It is thought to be an onomatopoeic word, mimicking the sound of a kiss. Over time, 'smooch' has become a popular slang term for a romantic gesture, often used in a playful or affectionate context.


See also: smoocher.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #40,036, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.