Meaning & use

kiss

verb·Everyday

To touch someone with the lips as a sign of affection, greeting, or desire.

See it in a sentence

She kissed her grandmother goodbye before boarding the train home yesterday.

They kissed briefly on the cheek and promised to write to each other.

A note on using this word

Kiss can be used as both a verb and a noun; the type of kiss, such as a peck or a smooch, adds informal nuance.

Words with a similar meaning

pecksmooch

Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.

Another way to use it

2. noun

An act of touching someone with the lips to show affection or greeting.

He gave the baby a gentle kiss on the forehead before leaving for work.

Make it your own

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