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The image of a hand kiss in movies and novels is always portrayed as elegant and sweet, but does it still happen in real life today? This is an interesting question! It often depends on the situation and culture of each place, but there are definitely some general rules to keep in mind the next time you plan to kiss someone's hand. We have gathered the most frequently asked questions about the etiquette of kissing hands to help you.
Steps
What is the proper hand-kissing etiquette?
Gently press your lips briefly on the back of their hand. Hold their hand with one or both hands and lift it lightly. It’s best to be cautious by merely brushing your lips against the middle of their hand once. If you sense they feel uncomfortable, refrain from kissing their hand next time.
- The traditional hand kiss is very light, almost like a kiss in the air.
- It might surprise the other person because nowadays, very few people still kiss hands. It's hard to predict how someone will react when caught off guard, so be aware!
Who takes the initiative when it comes to a hand kiss?
According to traditional customs, the woman takes the lead by extending her hand for the other person to kiss. In the United States, hand-kissing is now considered outdated. In Europe, this gesture is also less common but hasn’t completely disappeared, particularly among the upper class. Older, sophisticated ladies in Europe may still offer their hand for a man to kiss, although this is rare.
- Offering your hand to be kissed when meeting someone might make you seem a bit pretentious or eccentric, especially in the U.S.
Is it acceptable to kiss a woman's hand?
If you know the woman and believe she would appreciate it, feel free to do so. However, if you've never met her, this gesture could be a bit risky. Some women in the U.S. find the act of kissing a hand charming and seductive, while others view it as outdated, even somewhat sexist.
- If you're an American man in Europe and have never kissed a hand before, it's best not to adopt this custom immediately. You might end up looking awkward.
Is it odd for a woman to kiss a man's hand?
Traditionally, women never kiss a man's hand, unless he is a nobleman or royalty. But what about today? Gender roles have evolved. If you’re a woman and you’d like to kiss a man’s or another woman’s hand, go ahead! Just keep in mind that not everyone will respond positively to these outdated customs.
- If it's your partner, gender roles don't really matter. Usually, he'll find the gesture endearing.
What does the gesture of kissing a hand mean?
A hand kiss is usually a sign of affectionate admiration or deep respect. This gesture is quite old-fashioned, so if a guy kisses your hand on the first date, it’s clear he has an old-world gentlemanly style. If your partner kisses your hand, it’s a sign of love and admiration.
- If this old-fashioned gentlemanly behavior isn’t your style, gently tell him it makes you uncomfortable, and remember to smile to avoid embarrassing him.
- In the U.S., there’s no real reason to kiss someone’s hand in a purely social setting, unless it’s for fun.
Is there any other meaning to kissing a hand?
In some parts of France, kissing a hand is simply a greeting. It’s not unusual for a European man to kiss a woman’s hand, especially if she’s older. If you encounter this in Europe, just go with the flow as it’s a normal tradition there. However, if a European man tries to kiss your hand in the U.S., you can either let him do it naturally or politely inform him that it’s a bit unusual in America.
- Hand kissing as a greeting might still be practiced in European countries like Italy, Spain, and Austria.
