'baisemain' originates from French, specifically the word 'baisemain', where 'baiser' meant 'to kiss' and 'main' meant 'hand'.

'baisemain' was borrowed into English from French (from the elements 'baiser' + 'main'), entering English usage in the 19th century largely unchanged as a term for a ceremonial kiss on the hand.

Initially, it meant 'a kiss on the hand as a gesture of respect or ceremony', and over time it has retained that specific meaning in English.