'kiss' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'cyssan', which comes from Proto-Germanic '*kussjan' (an imitative root reflecting the act of kissing).

'kiss' changed from Old English 'cyssan' to Middle English 'kissen' (or similar forms) and eventually became the modern English word 'kiss' (past 'kissed' formed regularly).

Initially, it meant 'to touch with the lips' (an action of pressing lips to someone or something); over time the core meaning has largely remained the same, though it also developed figurative uses (e.g. 'sun-kissed', 'kiss goodbye').