How Do You Spell KISSING COUSIN?

Pronunciation: [kˈɪsɪŋ kˈʌzən] (IPA)

The phrase "kissing cousin" is spelled using the /k/ sound at the beginning, which is pronounced by touching the back of the tongue to the roof of the mouth. The second sound, /ɪ/, is pronounced with the mouth slightly open and the tongue in a central position. The final sound, /ŋ/, is pronounced by touching the back of the tongue to the soft palate, creating a nasal sound. "Kissing cousin" refers to a relative who is closely related but not considered taboo to have a romantic relationship with.

KISSING COUSIN Meaning and Definition

1. A "kissing cousin" refers to a relative, typically a cousin, with whom one shares a close relationship or strong bond, often marked by affectionate or intimate interactions. This idiom suggests a relationship that is beyond the typical familial connection, approaching romantic or friendly intimacy. It is commonly used to describe a cousin with whom one shares a mutual attraction or a deep emotional connection that goes beyond the usual familial affection.

   The phrase "kissing cousin" originates from the idea that cousins may share a level of familiarity and comfort that allows for expressions of physical or emotional closeness, such as hugging, kissing, or other signs of affection. It implies a strong rapport or fondness that resembles the intimacy usually associated with romantic or close friendships.

   While the term "kissing cousin" carries a connotation of potential inappropriateness or ambiguity due to its close association with kissing, it does not necessarily imply any romantic or physical involvement. Rather, it emphasizes the special connection and affection shared between individuals who are related by blood, specifically cousins. Therefore, the expression can be used metaphorically to describe any type of close relationship or strong bond that goes beyond typical family connections.

Common Misspellings for KISSING COUSIN

• jissing cousin
• missing cousin
• lissing cousin
• oissing cousin
• iissing cousin
• kussing cousin
• kjssing cousin
• kkssing cousin
• kossing cousin
• k9ssing cousin
• k8ssing cousin
• kiasing cousin
• kizsing cousin
• kixsing cousin
• kidsing cousin
• kiesing cousin
• kiwsing cousin
• kisaing cousin
• kiszing cousin

Etymology of KISSING COUSIN

The phrase "kissing cousin" is an idiomatic expression used to describe a close or intimate relationship between two people who are familiar with each other but not necessarily related by blood. The etymology of the term can be traced back to the 19th century in the United States.

The word "cousin" derives from the Latin word "consobrinus", which referred to a relative sharing the same bloodline or kinship. In Old English, "cousin" was initially used to describe a close family member, such as a sibling or a nephew. Over time, the term broadened its meaning to include other relatives, such as cousins.

The addition of the word "kissing" to the phrase "cousin" is believed to have originated from the practice of expressing familiarity or affection by kissing a relative on the cheek or lips.

Idioms with the word KISSING COUSIN

• a kissing cousin The idiom "a kissing cousin" refers to a person or thing that is closely related or similar to another, usually in terms of characteristics, qualities, or traits. It often conveys a sense of close resemblance or familiarity, as if the two subjects are almost like family.
• kissing cousin The idiom "kissing cousin" refers to a close relative or friend who is so familiar and well-known that they might as well be a cousin, even if there is no actual family connection. It can also suggest a close, intimate relationship between two people.

Similar spelling words for KISSING COUSIN

• kissing disease,
• kissing bug,
• jinxing,
• kissing kin.

Plural form of KISSING COUSIN is KISSING COUSINS