Infatuation Rules
Photo by Mikhail Nilov Pexels Logo Photo: Mikhail Nilov

What does it mean when a guy kisses you deeply?

This type of kiss indicates a partner is looking to develop your connection. And if a passionate kiss comes up in long-term relationships, it can represent a sense of passion and unity, too.

How do you walk away from a relationship with dignity?
How do you walk away from a relationship with dignity?

3 Keys to Ending a Relationship With Dignity Be certain you want to end the relationship. Don't threaten to leave in an effort to get your partner...

Read More »
What are girls love language?
What are girls love language?

There are five love languages: Words of Affirmation, Acts of Service, Receiving Gifts, Quality Time, and Physical Touch. Jan 8, 2018

Read More »

N o one needs to be told that receiving a kiss on the lips versus a kiss on the hand leaves a person feeling differently. And while all types of consensual kisses in romantic relationships can be great, they don’t always convey the same meaning. For instance, a neck kiss might mean your partner is in the mood and turned on but also that there’s a level of depth and passion between you two. On the contrary, a o one needs to be told that receiving a kiss on the lips versus a kiss on the hand leaves a person feeling differently. And while all types of consensual kisses in romantic relationships can be great, they don’t always convey the same meaning. For instance, a neck kiss might mean your partner is in the mood and turned on but also that there’s a level of depth and passion between you two. On the contrary, a kiss on the cheek might be a more platonic kind of kiss, which your partner may use as a conservative gesture when in public. Or it could even be passed between friends and family members, too. Of course, all relationships are unique, as are the people who are in them. That means that different types of kisses and their meaning aren't set in stone, but according to experts, there is often some overlap where certain kinds of kisses are associated with a certain meaning. If you’re looking for a cheat sheet for how different kinds of kisses and their meaning might play into your relationship, keep reading for an expert breakdown. But, do keep in mind that communicating with your partner via intimate conversations that extend being kissing sessions is key for making sure you're both on the same page in your relationship.

Related Stories

7 different types of kisses and their meaning, according to two sex therapists

1. Make-out kiss

A lusty kiss on the lips (think: the classic make-out session) points to your partner being really into you—and currently aroused. Yet, a deep, heavy kiss means that they feel a relatively intimate bond with you or are looking to get closer. “I think a make-out kiss is about desire for deep connection,” says Jenni Skyler, PhD, LMFT, an AASECT-certified sex therapist and sexologist for sexual-health brand AdamEve.com. “Usually this kiss involves the tongue, which helps us be curious about the other person's mouth, but the tongue deep inside someone else is also about union—and therefore the desire to be connected as one.”

How do you know a girl finds you attractive?
How do you know a girl finds you attractive?

Signs a Girl Is Attracted to You Smiling at you. Shooting short glances your way. Darting her eyes away when you look at her. Making prolonged eye...

Read More »
Are narcissist usually male or female?
Are narcissist usually male or female?

men Roughly 6% of the population has narcissistic personality disorder. Research over the years has shown that it is also more prevalent in men...

Read More »

This type of kiss indicates a partner is looking to develop your connection. And if a passionate kiss comes up in long-term relationships, it can represent a sense of passion and unity, too.

2. Neck kiss

A neck kiss is connected to passion. "It’s almost as if the kiss is saying, ‘hello sexy person, I really like you,’” says Dr. Skyler. “I think of this kiss as more sensual than lust-filled, but it can become more lust-filled if the kiss turns to a bite.” Nibbling and biting (gently) on the neck can take the kiss up a notch, where your partner is telling you how attracted and passionate they feel towards you, with a greater emphasis on sexual arousal.

3. Stomach kiss

“I consider the stomach kiss to be one of trust,” Dr. Skyler says. “This one is almost saying, ‘I love you just the way you are. You are fully safe with me.’” If your partner gives you a few kisses on your belly while you’re cuddling and watching TV, or if they work their way up and down your body during foreplay, the stomach kiss might mean that they’re feeling protective over you, and they want you to know that you can trust them. That's because the stomach is a vulnerable area for many, and kiss there is reflective of a strong, intimate pull between the two of you.

4. Closed-mouth kiss

“It's not totally platonic, but it could indicate that intimacy is scary,” says Dr. Skylar. It could show that optimal levels of intimacy aren't really there yet. It's also possible that a closed-mouth kiss or a peck is reflective of being pressed for time, having disinterest, or pulling away from the relationship. To decipher what it means in the scope of your own partnership, have a conversation.

5. Kiss on the back and shoulders

What is the 50/50 rule in a relationship?
What is the 50/50 rule in a relationship?

A 50/50 split means that each person gives the exact same amount of themselves—fully. Partners base their giving on sameness and equality rather...

Read More »
What is the perfect age for a girl to get married?
What is the perfect age for a girl to get married?

“The ideal age to get married, with the least likelihood of divorce in the first five years, is 28 to 32,” says Carrie Krawiec, a marriage and...

Read More »

“For some people, exploring the shoulders and back region is super sexy," says Dr. Skylar. "On the other hand, if it’s the only kiss you engage in, then it could be a barrier to [stay away] from deeper connection and intimacy.” Back and shoulder kisses could also just be simple and sexually driven, and your partner could be conveying interest and attraction.

6. Forehead (or head) kiss

“This kind of kiss is most often given to show care, affection, or protection, so a forehead kiss feels like an ‘I've gotcha,’ or ‘you're safe here,’ kiss,” says Rachel Wright, MA, LMFT. Similar to the kiss on the belly, where there’s a sense of protection and trust that’s to be shared, receiving a forehead kiss may mean your partner feels responsible for taking care of you and wants you to feel safe with them. “There is definitely an endearing quality to a forehead kiss, which indicates a level of compassion or care for the other person,” she adds.

7. Hand kiss

This kiss typically conveys respect. “Offering this kiss is a way to say, ‘I love you for all of who you are, and I am humble before you,’” Wright says. And it can—but doesn't have to be—platonic. "There is no universally accepted meaning of what a hand kiss is, but some use it as a way to say hello while others use it to show commitment,” says Wright. A romantic partner may offer one when they want you to know they find you special, unique, and valuable. But ultimately, assuming any meaning for what a kiss means may be detrimental to a relationship. Instead, ask your partner what they're thinking and feeling if you don't know what a type of kiss means to them. And, likewise, think about what these types of kisses mean to you.

What are the pillars of a strong relationship?
What are the pillars of a strong relationship?

The pillars of healthy relationships You can be yourself. ... You are BFFs. ... You feel comfortable and close. ... You're more alike than...

Read More »
What do unhealthy friendships look like?
What do unhealthy friendships look like?

A toxic friend will have a hard time sharing you with other friends and tend to get really jealous when you're with other people. A toxic person...

Read More »
How many relationships does the average girl have?
How many relationships does the average girl have?

The most common answer is 6-8 partners, but it's not uncommon for some girls to have had 50 or more lovers! Aug 5, 2021

Read More »
How will you know when you meet your soulmate?
How will you know when you meet your soulmate?

You know you've found a kindred soulmate when you pretty much agree on all of the small and big stuff. “You love the same things; laugh at the same...

Read More »