PhrasesHub

Air kiss

    Definitions

      • greeting or farewell
        To greet or bid farewell to someone by lightly brushing cheeks or blowing a kiss in the air, often used in situations where physical contact is not appropriate or desired

      • insincerity or pretentiousness
        To express affection or admiration in a superficial or insincere manner, often used in a mocking or sarcastic way

      • show of affection or respect
        To show affection or respect towards someone, often in a lighthearted or playful manner, without actually touching them

    Examples of Air kiss

    • "I'm so excited to see you again! Let's just air kiss for now since we're both wearing masks."

      The idiom "air kiss" refers to a gesture where two people pretend to kiss each other's cheeks while blowing air instead of actually touching lips. This is often done as a greeting or farewell when physical contact is not possible or appropriate, such as in a crowded space or when wearing masks due to a pandemic.2. Pull out all the stops

    • "The company is really pulling out all the stops for this year's holiday party. We're expecting a live band, a fancy dinner, and even a magician!"

      The idiom "pull out all the stops" means to do everything possible or to go all out in order to achieve a desired result. This phrase comes from the organ of a pipe organ, where the stops are the mechanisms that control the flow of air to the pipes. When all the stops are pulled, it produces the loudest and most impressive sound.3. Beat around the bush

    • "I hate it when people beat around the bush and don't just come out and say what they mean."

      The idiom "beat around the bush" refers to avoiding a direct or straightforward approach to a topic or issue. It comes from the hunting term "bush beater," which is a tool used to flush out game from hiding places in the bushes.4. Spill the beans

    • "I accidentally spilled the beans about the surprise party last night. Oops!"

      The idiom "spill the beans" means to reveal a secret or surprise unintentionally. This phrase comes from the game of chance called "bean game," where the beans are kept in a container and the player has to guess where they are without spilling them.5. Break a leg

    • "Good luck with your audition today! Break a leg!"

      The idiom "break a leg" is a well-meaning wish for good luck, especially in the performing arts. It comes from the superstition that wishing someone "good luck" could jinx them, so instead, people say "break a leg" as a way to avoid bad luck. However, the phrase "break a leg" literally means to injure oneself, which is the opposite of what is intended. So, the phrase is used ironically to wish someone success.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "air kiss" is commonly used to describe a greeting or farewell that involves lightly brushing cheeks or blowing a kiss in the air. This can be used in situations where physical contact is not appropriate, such as a formal event or when meeting someone for the first time. It can also be used as a way to show affection or respect towards someone without actually touching them.

    In addition, the phrase "air kiss" is often used to convey insincerity or pretentiousness. This can be seen in situations where someone gives an air kiss as a show of affection or admiration, but it is done in a superficial or insincere manner. It can also be used sarcastically to mock someone who is being overly affectionate or insincere.

    Overall, the idiom "air kiss" is used to describe a greeting or farewell that involves minimal physical contact or as a way to express insincerity or affection. It is a versatile phrase that can be used in different contexts and with varying intentions.

    Origin of "Air kiss"

    The origin of the idiom "air kiss" is uncertain, but it is believed to have originated in the 20th century. Some sources suggest that it may have originated in Hollywood as a way for actors and actresses to avoid spreading germs while still appearing affectionate on screen. Others believe it may have originated in the French culture, where air kisses (known as "les bises") are a common form of greeting.

    The use of air kisses as a way to express insincerity or pretentiousness may have stemmed from the idea that physical contact is more genuine and sincere than a kiss in the air. Therefore, giving someone an air kiss could be seen as a superficial or insincere gesture.

    Today, the idiom "air kiss" is widely used in English-speaking countries and has become a popular way to greet or bid farewell to someone without physical contact. It has also gained a sarcastic connotation in certain contexts.