WordGarden.iokisser
A2Pronunciation
UK
- /kˈɪsə/
US
- /ˈkɪsər/
Meanings
Noun
a person who kisses, especially one judged by how well they kiss
the mouth, lips, or face
Beyond the definition
"Kisser" is not always about romance. It can mean someone who likes to give kisses, often in a warm or playful way, as in "a good kisser" or "a sweet kisser." But in informal English, it also has a well-known second meaning: a person's mouth or face. You may hear it in old comic lines like "Right in the kisser!", where it clearly means the face. So the meaning changes a lot depending on the situation.
The word "kisser" has two main uses in English. At its most direct, it means someone who kisses. In this sense, it is often used in a warm or romantic way for a partner, as in "a good kisser" or "a tender kisser." It can also be used more broadly for someone who gives kisses freely, such as an affectionate child or even a pet.
The word also has a tough, playful slang meaning. In older informal English, especially in boxing, comedy, and old movies, a person's "kisser" meant their mouth or face. A line like "Right in the kisser!" has nothing to do with affection; it means a hit to the face. In some cases, it points more to the mouth, especially in rude commands like "shut your kisser."
Today, the word still moves between these two ideas: affection and rough old-fashioned slang. Because the meanings are so different, context matters. Calling someone "a good kisser" is usually a compliment about romantic skill, while telling someone to "shut your kisser" is a rude way to tell them to be quiet.
Examples
- 1
Romantic ability
Everyone says Leo is a great kisser.
- 2
Dating nerves
I liked the date, but he was a very nervous kisser.
- 3
Pet affection
Their new puppy is an enthusiastic kisser, especially when visitors sit on the floor.
- 4
Face hit
The ball bounced off the wall and hit him right on the kisser.
- Usageon the kisser
on the mouth or face; informal
See also
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- kissernoun