What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
kiss
Example
He leaned in to give her a kiss on the cheek. [kiss: noun]
Example
They kissed passionately under the moonlight. [kiss: verb]
smooch
Example
She gave him a quick smooch before leaving for work. [smooch: noun]
Example
He smooched her on the forehead before tucking her into bed. [smooch: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Kiss is more commonly used than smooch in everyday language. Kiss is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while smooch is less common and usually used in casual or playful situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between kiss and smooch?
Kiss is more formal and commonly used in serious or romantic contexts, while smooch is more casual and informal, often used among friends or family members.