Snog: meaning, definitions and examples

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snog

[snɒɡ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

romantic

To kiss and cuddle amorously.

Synonyms

kiss, make out, smooch.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
snog	Mostly used in British English and often in casual or informal settings. It typically implies heavy or passionate kissing and can sometimes carry a playful or cheeky tone. They were snogging in the corner at the party. I can't believe you snogged him last night!
kiss	The most general and versatile term, suitable for both formal and informal settings. It can describe everything from a quick peck on the cheek to more intimate forms of kissing. He gave her a gentle kiss on the forehead. They shared a passionate kiss under the moonlight.
make out	Commonly used in American English, this term generally implies a more extended period of kissing, often involving more physical intimacy. It is casual and often used by younger individuals. They were making out in the back seat of the car. We spent hours just making out on the couch.
smooch	A playful and somewhat old-fashioned term that is light-hearted and often used affectionately. Suitable for less serious or romantic situations and can sometimes sound a bit cheesy or cute. Give me a smooch before you go! They had a quick smooch before parting ways.

Examples of usage

They were snogging on the park bench.
They snogged in the back of the taxi.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

British slang

A long passionate kiss.

Synonyms

kiss, make out, smooch.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
snog	Used mainly in British English, often in a casual or playful context, describing longer, passionate kissing, often with some humorous or light-hearted connotation. They snogged at the party and everyone watched. Remember the time we snogged at that concert?
kiss	The most general term, appropriate in any context, from a peck on the cheek to more romantic or passionate forms of kissing. Often neutral and straightforward. She kissed her friend goodbye. They shared a tender kiss under the stars.
smooch	Informal and often used in a playful or affectionate manner to describe kissing, typically gentle and loving. Can feel a bit old-fashioned. They shared a sweet smooch after the date. Give your grandma a smooch on the cheek.
make out	Common in American English, usually describes prolonged and passionate kissing, often implying more intense physical involvement. It can sometimes feel informal or suggestive. They were making out in the backseat of the car. You could see them making out in the corner of the room.

Examples of usage

They shared a snog before saying goodbye.
Their snog lasted for minutes.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'snog' originated in British slang, first appearing in print in the 1980s.
It is believed to have derived from the term 'snogging,' which has roots in older English dialects related to touching and affection.
Some theories suggest a connection to the Yorkshire verb 'snog,' which means to strike or hit, indicating playful or affectionate contact.

Pop Culture

The term 'snog' gained popularity through various British films and TV shows, where it often represents young love and playful romance.
'Snog, marry, avoid?' is a popular British TV show that humorously tackles fashion and relationship choices, making snogging part of its cultural conversation.
British musicians and shows have frequently used 'snog' in lyrics and dialogues, emphasizing its fun and flirty connotations.

Psychology

Physical affection, including kissing, releases oxytocin, a hormone that helps strengthen bonds between partners, which is often expressed through snogging.
Research shows that public displays of affection, such as snogging, can increase feelings of intimacy and happiness in romantic relationships.
The act of snogging can also be a way for people to express their attraction and desire without the need for words, creating a deeper connection.

Cultural Variations

While 'snog' is embraced in British culture, other cultures have different terms for similar affectionate actions, highlighting variations in expressions of love.
In some countries, public displays of affection like snogging may be more accepted than in others, depending on cultural norms around intimacy.
Snogging reflects a casual and fun approach to romance in British culture, contrasting with more formal dating interviews prevalent in other societies.

Literature

Snogging often appears in young adult literature, symbolizing the light-hearted side of teenage romance.
Many coming-of-age novels explore themes of love through characters snogging, illustrating the excitement and awkwardness of first crushes.
Modern British authors frequently use the word 'snog' as a playful way to engage readers with relatable romantic experiences.

Translations

Translations of the word "snog" in other languages:

🇵🇹 beijar

🇮🇳 चुंबन करना

🇩🇪 küssen

🇮🇩 berciuman

🇺🇦 цілувати

🇵🇱 całować

🇯🇵 キスをする

🇫🇷 embrasser

🇪🇸 besarse

🇹🇷 öpüşmek

🇰🇷 키스하다

🇸🇦 تقبيل

🇨🇿 líbat

🇸🇰 bozkávať

🇨🇳 亲吻

🇸🇮 poljubljati

🇮🇸 kyssa

🇰🇿 сүю

🇬🇪 კოცნა

🇦🇿 öpüşmək

🇲🇽 besarse

Word Frequency Rank

At position #41,188, 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.

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41185 tricorder
41186 reinfect
41187 spitter
41188 snog
41189 birching
41190 contagiously
41191 gunrunning
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