A two finger kiss is a gesture where someone purses their lips and then points with their index and middle fingers to their pursed lips to send a kiss to someone. This gesture is a playful and flirtatious way to blow a kiss without actually blowing one. It can signify affection, attraction, or flirtation depending on the context and relationship between the people involved.
What is the origin of the two finger kiss?
The exact origin of the two finger kiss gesture is unclear, but it became popularized in the 1960s and 1970s. Some speculate that it originated from mime performers pretending to catch a blown kiss and then directing it to someone. Others note similarities to the “V for Victory” hand gesture used during World War II, which morphed into a peace sign in the 1960s counterculture. As the peace sign itself became a flirtatious symbol, some think it then evolved into the two finger kiss as a playful way to blow a kiss.
How did the two finger kiss spread in popularity?
The two finger kiss gained popularity through its use in entertainment and media over the decades:
- It was used by musicians like Mick Jagger in the 1960s and 1970s while performing on stage.
- Iconic actress Marilyn Monroe famously did the gesture in some of her photo shoots.
- It appeared in movies like 1968’s Bullitt and 1969’s Easy Rider as a symbol of free love and the counterculure of the time.
- Musicians like Madonna and Prince used it in their music videos in the 1980s and 1990s.
- The gesture continues to be used today by celebrities and in media like music videos, TV shows, and movies.
As the two finger kiss appeared across pop culture, it became a recognized hand sign for flirtation and gained popularity, especially among younger generations.
In what contexts is the two finger kiss used today?
Today, the two finger kiss continues to be used:
- As a playful or flirtatious gesture to someone to indicate affection or attraction
- To blow a kiss to someone without actually puckering up
- To signify goodbye to someone in a casual and fun way
- To acknowledge or reciprocate affection from someone else doing the gesture
- Sometimes as a way to tease or annoy someone in a joking manner
- As a fun pose in selfies and photos
It’s commonly used between romantic partners, friends, family members, or acquaintances. Teenagers and young adults tend to use it the most frequently, but people of all ages may use the gesture in informal settings.
What are some variations of the two finger kiss?
There are a few variations of the classic two finger kiss gesture. Some examples include:
- Kissing the pointed fingers instead of just pursing the lips
- Blowing an actual kiss then directing it with the two fingers
- Using just the index finger instead of two fingers
- Pointing the fingers away from the lips instead of towards them
- Winking while doing the gesture
- Doing the gesture using the hand sideways instead of straight on
People often put their own personal spin on the gesture when using it. But typically it still involves pursed lips and two fingers pointing outward to signify blowing a kiss.
What does it mean if someone does a two finger kiss to you?
Some common meanings if someone does the two finger kiss gesture to you:
- They find you attractive or have a crush on you
- They want to flirt with you in a lighthearted, noncommittal manner
- They are expressing affection for you as a friend or someone they care about
- They want to acknowledge, reciprocate, or return an affectionate gesture from you
- They are saying an affectionate goodbye or see you later
- They want to be playful and joke around in a flirty way
So in most cases, it signifies some level of affection, attraction, or flirtation depending on your relationship and the situation. But keep in mind not everyone uses it with romantic intentions – sometimes it’s just a casual, fun way to say hello or goodbye too.
How should you respond to a two finger kiss?
There are a few ways you can respond when someone sends a two finger kiss your way:
- Return the two finger kiss back to them, either immediately or later on
- Smile or laugh to show you appreciate the playful gesture
- Wave back in a friendly manner
- Verbalize a greeting like “Hey!” or “Hi there!”
- Blow an actual kiss back
- Wink or give a thumbs up
- Say thank you or that it was sweet if it seemed very affectionate
- Ignore it or change the subject if it makes you uncomfortable
Tailor your response to how well you know the person and your relationship with them. Reciprocity if you feel the same way, a polite smile if they are more an acquaintance, or ignoring if it crosses boundaries. The key is to respond comfortably for you.
When is doing a two finger kiss inappropriate?
In general, a two finger kiss is meant as a lighthearted gesture, but in some situations it may be inappropriate or unwanted. It’s best to avoid doing a two finger kiss if:
- The other person has expressed they don’t like that gesture or find it uncomfortable
- It’s toward someone you don’t know very well personally
- You are in a professional setting or environment
- You are much older or younger than the recipient and don’t have an established jokey rapport
- You are in a committed relationship and your partner disapproves
- The other person is clearly uninterested or has rejected similar gestures from you before
It can come across as disrespectful, aggressive, or harassing in these kinds of contexts. Read social cues and only use the two finger kiss with discretion towards those likely to appreciate it.
Conclusion
The two finger kiss is a lighthearted hand gesture often used to signify affection, attraction, flirtation, or a casual goodbye. Originating in the 1960s counterculure, it became mainstream through music, movies, and celebrities over the decades. It continues today as a playful way to blow a kiss without actual contact. When used appropriately between friends, family, acquaintances, or romantic interests who enjoy the humor, it can be a fun bonding experience. But restraint should be exercised in formal situations or with those unlikely to appreciate the gesture.