Dailymirror.news, February 13, 2025: Today marks the global celebration of Kiss Day (Kiss Day 2025), a special occasion observed every year on February 13, just a day before Valentine’s Day. On this day, kissing is widely regarded as one of the most intimate and romantic ways to express love.

Among the various forms of kissing, the French kiss stands out as one of the most well-known and beloved. But where did the French kiss originate, and how did it come to be associated with romance?

The Origins of the French Kiss

The term French kiss entered the English lexicon in 1923.
The style of kissing, which involves the use of the tongue, gained widespread popularity after World War I.
Though the name suggests a French origin, it was actually American soldiers who introduced this kissing style to the world.
The French Kiss in Literature

Cheryl Kirshenbaum, in her book The Science of Kissing, notes that the phrase French kiss first appeared in English in 1923.
During their time in France, American soldiers began adopting the practice of using their tongues while kissing, and this style soon gained traction back home.
Synonyms for the French Kiss

Initially, the French did not refer to this style of kissing as French kiss. It was simply known as “kissing.”
Interestingly, until 2014, there was no specific term for the French kiss in the French language. It was only in that year that the Petit Robert dictionary introduced the word “galoucher,” which translates to “kissing with the tongue.”
Health Benefits of Kissing

Kissing, in all its forms, is a meaningful way for lovers to express affection.
Studies indicate that kissing offers a range of health benefits, including reducing blood pressure, boosting levels of “feel-good” hormones (serotonin, dopamine, oxytocin), burning calories, and enhancing self-esteem.
Additionally, kissing may help combat dental issues such as cavities.

The French kiss has become a globally recognized symbol of intimacy and affection, largely popularized by American soldiers following World War I. Beyond its role as a passionate expression of love, it also offers various health benefits, making it a powerful and enjoyable act of connection.