What does smooch mean?
A smooch is a kiss made with pursed lips, and to smooch someone is to give them such a kiss. The word has a playful, affectionate tone and is especially common in descriptions of romantic or family interactions, although it can also suggest a more passionate kiss. It can describe a brief greeting or kiss, as in exchanging a quick smooch, or an extended affectionate moment. A related use describes moving close to someone in a tender way, often with the added sense of cuddling or nuzzling. Because smooch combines a clearly audible action with an affectionate meaning, it is especially vivid in everyday conversation and informal writing.
To kiss someone with pursed lips; also, to move or press close to someone affectionately.
"He leaned in and smooched her on the cheek."
Informal and affectionate; the second sense is especially associated with cuddling or nuzzling.
A kiss made with pursed lips.
"She gave him a smooch as a goodbye."
Commonly used for a brief, affectionate kiss, though it can also refer to a passionate kiss.
The plural is used when referring to more than one kiss or affectionate greeting.
"They exchanged a few smooches before leaving."
A smooch is a kiss made with pursed lips, turning the simple sound of the word into a picture of the action itself.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does smooch come from?
The English word smooch is an imitative formation from the 19th century, probably inspired by the sound made when kissing with pursed lips. Its spelling represents the rounded initial sound and the prolonged consonant before the final affricate. The exact historical source of the form is uncertain, but its development belongs to a broader pattern of English words formed to imitate sounds.
Related word forms
How smooch is actually used
The word is informal and affectionate, though it can also describe a passionate kiss. In British and American English, it is most often used in romantic or playful contexts.
Easily confused with smooch
A smudge is a blurred mark or stain, whereas a smooch is a kiss.