Synonyms for

Kissing

Verb / ˈkɪsɪŋ / Another word for kissing — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

to touch or press ones lips against someone or something as a sign of love, affection, or greeting

Synonyms & similar words

cuddling snuggling petting kiss buss osculate hugging fondling caressing smooching necking snog smooching embracing caressing snogging pecking canoodling necking hugging snuggling petting fondling cuddling nuzzling bussing pressing

Synonyms by register

Formal

saluting greeting

Informal

smooching pecking pecking at making out

Literary

osculating caressing

Antonyms

rejecting repelling avoiding shunning ignoring spurning

Common collocations

  • kissing goodbye
  • kissing hello
  • kissing someone
  • kissing on the cheek
  • kissing passionately
  • kissing tenderly
  • kissing the ring

Word family

noun kiss
verb kiss
adjective kissable

Usage note

While 'kissing' is a common and direct term, more formal or literary contexts might use 'osculating' or 'saluting'. 'Making out' is a distinctly informal synonym.

Example sentences

  1. I love kissing my dog on the nose.
  2. I kissed my mom goodbye before leaving for school.
  3. The couple was caught kissing in public.
  4. He leaned in and kissed her on the cheek.
  5. She giggled as he kissed her neck.

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