kiss

verb

ˈkis How to pronounce kiss (audio)
Definition of kissnext
1
as in to cuddle
to touch one another with the lips as a sign of love it's traditional for couples to kiss under the mistletoe at Christmastime

Synonyms & Similar Words

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2
as in to brush
to pass lightly across or touch gently especially in passing a gentle breeze kissing the water's surface

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of kiss Cameras captured them kissing and hugging on the field after the game. — Pete Grathoff, Kansas City Star, 3 July 2026 Taylor greeted her man after the show with a big hug and kiss. — Alicia Brunker, InStyle, 3 July 2026 Pour The 4th On Me Toast Temecula At Toast Temecula, crafted with Buffalo Trace Bourbon and Amaretto, this patriot sip is bold, rustic and berry kissed. — Aly Walansky, Forbes.com, 2 July 2026 In photos published by Page Six on June 15, Alwyn and Pidgeon were seen kissing in Brooklyn. — Allison Degrushe, StyleCaster, 2 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for kiss
Recent Examples of Synonyms for kiss
  1. cuddle
  2. brush
  3. smooch
  4. caress
  5. hug
  6. touch
  7. snuggle
Verb
  • In the middle of her set, the Hertz Gold Squad — a team of golden retrievers and their handlers — made their way through the audience to cuddle with concertgoers.
    — Rolling Stone, Rolling Stone, 5 July 2026
  • In several photos and videos from the day, the couple was seen holding hands, cuddling, and kissing; at one point, Travis also lifted Taylor up by the waist.
    — Alicia Brunker, InStyle, 3 July 2026
Definition of cuddle
Verb
  • Temasek invested in Luckin only after the company’s legal and governance issues were resolved, Chia said, brushing off questions about a relisting, saying Luckin’s priority should be building a durable business first.
    — Anniek Bao, CNBC, 8 July 2026
  • This includes washing hands, brushing teeth, and drinking, according to the city.
    — Mary Ella Hastings July 8, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 8 July 2026
Definition of brush
Verb
  • Luchasaurus dressed in a wig and nearly smooched Andrade El Idolo.
    — Ryan Gaydos, FOXNews.com, 26 May 2026
  • The late-night host has been on a hilarious smooching spree during his second-to-last week on the air, kissing several guests in recent days.
    — Brendan Morrow, USA Today, 13 May 2026
Definition of smooch
Verb
  • After examining her injury, Brito began to caress and massage Patient 1’s foot under the guise of providing care.
    — David J. Neal, Miami Herald, 28 June 2026
  • Richer, more concentrated Prosecco with delectable flavors of nectarine tart and apricot preserves with intense minerality and delicate bubbles that caress the palate.
    — Cathrine Todd, Forbes.com, 25 June 2026
Definition of caress
Verb
  • The boat ramp is the business address of Graham Platner’s oyster company, only a few minutes’ walk from his home in this town of 1,200 people that hugs the Maine coast.
    — Joanna Slater, Washington Post, 9 July 2026
  • By hugging your leg muscles and feet, the socks keep veins straight and narrow so that the valves can pump properly.
    — BestReviews, Mercury News, 9 July 2026
Definition of hug
Verb
  • Usually, this means consuming the affected food or drink directly, or touching something contaminated and then touching your mouth without washing your hands.
    — Mary Walrath-Holdridge, USA Today, 10 July 2026
  • Place a medium heatproof bowl over the saucepan, making sure the bottom of the bowl does not touch the water.
    — Monti Carlo, AJC.com, 10 July 2026
Definition of touch
Verb
  • Both this percale comforter and linen quilt would be perfect for staying cozy yet cool in warm weather, while the snowflake sheet set will add some wintry whimsy that kids will love snuggling into.
    — Brittany VanDerBill, Better Homes & Gardens, 2 July 2026
  • Six Senses tends to attract quite a specific type of affluent traveler; those looking to eat well, exercise, learn something new, and snuggle up close to nature.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 29 June 2026
Definition of snuggle

Phrases Containing kiss

Browse Nearby Words

kismets
kiss
kissable
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Cite this Entry

“Kiss.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/kiss. Accessed 13 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on kiss

Nglish: Translation of kiss for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about kiss

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