Air-kiss is a term that is commonly used in social situations, particularly in formal events. It is a gesture that involves kissing the air near someone’s cheek or lips, without actually making physical contact. While the air-kiss has become a popular way of greeting someone, its meaning and associations can vary depending on the culture and context in which it is used.
Definitions
An air-kiss is a gesture that involves kissing the air near someone’s cheek or lips, without actually making physical contact. It is a common way of greeting someone in formal or social situations, particularly in Europe and other Western countries.
Origin
The origin of the air-kiss is unclear, but it is believed to have originated in Europe, particularly in France and Italy. It is thought to have developed as a way of greeting someone without spreading germs, particularly during times of illness or disease.
Meaning in different dictionaries
The meaning of air-kiss can vary depending on the dictionary. According to the Oxford English Dictionary, an air-kiss is “a gesture of greeting or farewell in which a person blows a kiss towards another person without making physical contact.” Merriam-Webster defines an air-kiss as “a kiss made by bringing the lips close to the cheek or lips of another person and then blowing into the air without making contact with the skin.”
Associations
The air-kiss is often associated with formal or social events, particularly in Europe and other Western countries. It is commonly used as a way of greeting someone, particularly in situations where physical contact may be inappropriate or uncomfortable. The air-kiss is also associated with celebrity culture, particularly in the fashion and entertainment industries, where it is used as a way of greeting and showing affection.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of air-kiss include blown kiss, virtual kiss, and fake kiss.
Antonyms
There are no direct antonyms of air-kiss, but some opposite gestures could include a handshake or a hug.
The same root words
There are no root words for air-kiss, as it is a compound word made up of “air” and “kiss.”
Example Sentences
- “As she approached the red carpet, she air-kissed the photographers and waved to the fans.”
- “He air-kissed his friend on the cheek and wished her a happy birthday.”
- “In some cultures, it is customary to air-kiss three times on alternating cheeks as a way of greeting someone.”