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beso

BEH-soh/ˈbe.so/

“beso” means “kiss” in Spanish (physical expression of affection or greeting).

kiss

Also: peck
NounmA1
SpainMexico, Colombia, Chile
A colorful storybook illustration showing two round, stylized characters leaning close together, sharing a gentle kiss.

📝 In Action

El niño le dio un beso de buenas noches a su peluche.

A1

The boy gave his teddy bear a goodnight kiss.

¿Fue un beso en la mejilla o un beso en los labios?

A2

Was it a kiss on the cheek or a kiss on the lips?

Terminó la carta con un montón de besos para toda la familia.

B1

She finished the letter with a lot of kisses (hugs and kisses) for the whole family.

Word Connections

Common Collocations

  • dar un beso – to give a kiss
  • beso en la mejilla – kiss on the cheek
  • mandar un beso – to blow a kiss / send a kiss

Idioms & Expressions

  • Besos y abrazos – Hugs and kisses (often used as a closing in letters or texts)

Translate to Spanish

Words that translate to "beso" in Spanish:

kiss→kissed→peck→

✏️ Quick Practice

Quick Quiz: beso

Question 1 of 2

Which Spanish verb should you use if you want to say you gave someone a kiss?

📚 More Resources

👥 Word Family▼
besar(to kiss) — Verb
besucón/a(a person who kisses a lot (often excessively)) — Adjective / Noun
🎵 Rhymes▼
quesoeso
📚 Etymology▼

Comes directly from the Latin word *bāsiāre*, which meant 'to kiss.' It has been a standard Spanish word since the Middle Ages.

First recorded: 13th century (in written records)

Cognates (Related words)

Portuguese: beijoItalian: bacio

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between 'beso' and 'besar'?

'Beso' is the noun, meaning 'the kiss' (the thing itself). 'Besar' is the verb, meaning 'to kiss' (the action you perform). Example: 'Quiero un beso' (I want a kiss) vs. 'Quiero besarla' (I want to kiss her).

Is 'beso' used only romantically?

Absolutely not. In Spanish-speaking cultures, 'un beso' or 'dos besos' (one or two cheek kisses) are fundamental non-romantic ways to greet friends, family, and acquaintances.