Английский Этимологический словарь - kiss (v.)

- O.E. cyssan "to kiss," from P.Gmc. *kussijanan, from *kuss-, root of O.E. coss "kiss" (n.), all probably ultimately imitative of the sound. For vowel evolution, see bury. There appears to be no common I.E. root word for "kiss." "Kissing, as an expression of affection or love, is unknown among many races, and in the history of mankind seems to be a late substitute for the more primitive rubbing of noses, sniffing, and licking." [Buck, p.1113] Some languages make a distinction between the kiss of affection and that of erotic love (cf. L. saviari "erotic kiss," vs. osculum, lit. "little mouth"). Fr. embrasser "kiss," but lit. "embrace," came about in 17c. when the older word baiser (from L. basiare) acquired an obscene connotation. Slang kisser "mouth" is from 1860. Phrase kissing cousin is Southern U.S. expression, 1940s, denoting "those close enough to be kissed in salutation." Insulting suggestion kiss my ass is at least from 1705.