A "European kiss" usually refers to the common social custom of greeting or parting with one or more kisses on the cheek, known as "la bise" in France, varying widely by country, region, and relationship, often involving air kisses or cheek touches with a kissing sound, not a literal lip-to-cheek kiss, and differing in the starting cheek (right or left). It's a sign of friendliness and bonding, distinct from romantic kissing, and etiquette depends on local customs, though generally, you follow the other person's lead to avoid awkwardness.
This weekend, a French friend told me that a German kiss is basically a French kiss but you swirl your tongue around in circles.
In many social situations, the Dutch greet each other with three kisses on the cheeks, alternating from right to left, and back again. This is the standard greeting among friends, family, and acquaintances. Think of it as the Dutch handshake, but with a lot more cheek-to-cheek action!
In Argentina, greetings are more than just formalities — they're moments of genuine connection. The kiss on the cheek, which accompanies nearly every hello and goodbye, is a simple and intimate way to acknowledge each person in a room.
Most would start with kissing the right cheek, then left, then back to the right. Back in Soviet times, the triple kisses are not done on cheek, but on the lips. These kisses can go from lip to lip and with even french kissing. Besides Russia, there are also several other countries that practice this gesture.
Glasgow kiss (plural Glasgow kisses) (British, euphemistic, humorous) A sharp, sudden headbutt to the nose, usually resulting in a broken nose.
The same thing happens if the groom ever leaves the bride's side. All the men in the room will quickly form a line to kiss the bride. This tradition is so much fun and makes for some of the most hilarious and memorable moments in the entire wedding! The tradition is a light kiss on the cheek.
An English Kiss is a cocktail of words, feelings and emotions blended into a mysterious overseas greeting. An English Kiss creates an unforgettable experience. It comes out of nowhere delivering an intense: “You Matter!”,” I Love You!”,” I Miss You!”, and why not, “I Am Sorry!”
A kissing face emoji is more likely to be friendly than a kiss mark emoji. Both can have romantic vibes, but 😘 is a sweet emoji you can easily send a parent or friend. 💋 is more often used in steamy, sensual messages—although you can still give it a platonic or sassy context.
“Pink Kiss” 🩷 A smooth gin cocktail with bright citrus notes and a touch of sweetness, perfectly balanced for a refreshing and elegant taste.
American kiss If you've ever seen the photo of the American soldier kissing a woman in the middle of the street after he made it home from World War II, you have the blueprint for the American kiss. It's essentially the same as the French kiss, except you and your kissing partner don't get your tongues involved.
Central America, South America and Africa are particular regions where there is not much of a kissing culture. Only 4 of the 17 cultures researched in South America, 4 of 27 in Africa and 0 of 10 cultures in Central America lock lips romantically.
The term "Greek kiss" refers to a sexual practice that involves oral stimulation or kisses in the anal region. It is a form of intimacy that can be explored between adult, consensual partners who want to experience new sensations.
Cat's Way of Expressing Affection (Their “Kisses”)
These “kitty kisses” include: Head Bunting or Cheek Rubbing: Rubbing their face against you to leave their scent mark, viewing you as part of their inner social circle. The Slow Blink: This is often referred to as the “cat kiss” or “I love you” signal.
The "most intimate kiss" isn't one specific type, but rather a feeling defined by connection, often found in gentle gestures like the butterfly kiss (fluttering lashes) or a tender forehead/head kiss, which signifies deep care, or passionate actions like a neck kiss (showing desire) or a lingering, soulful French kiss, all enhanced by the right timing and setting for true intimacy.
The 90/10 kissing rule, popularized by the movie Hitch, suggests that one person leans in 90% of the way for a kiss and pauses, allowing the other person to close the remaining 10%, which signals their consent and involvement, preventing it from feeling forced and creating anticipation. This technique gives the other person control, allowing them to either lean in for the kiss or pull away, indicating their comfort level.
The most prominent actor known for refusing on-screen kisses is Neal McDonough, who has a strict personal and contractual rule against kissing any woman other than his wife, Ruvé, leading him to be temporarily shut out by Hollywood for several years despite his devout Catholic faith and commitment to his family. Other actors like Kevin Hart and Bollywood stars have also had no-kiss policies for various personal or comfort reasons, but McDonough's case is well-documented for its impact on his career.
In English, the word used is 'chef's kiss'. From Dictionary.com: Chef's kiss is a gesture and expression meant to show something is perfect or excellent. The gesture is made by pinching the fingers and thumb of one hand together (often in an OK sign), kissing them, and then tossing them dramatically away from the lips.
Normally in Lebanon, the typical number of kisses is three: one on the left cheek, then right, and then left between relatives. In other countries, it is typically two kisses with one on each cheek. Cheek kissing in Turkey is also widely accepted in greetings.
Suudella = to kiss (with someone).
The greeting kiss is a Miami move. Ritual pucker, it's placed upon the cheek when first meeting, or when greeting friends and family again. Sometimes, only the cheeks make contact, and the kiss is sent floating in the air. Haptic gesture, the cheek kiss (or air kiss) is not universally practiced.