целу́вка
celúvkafeminine
The English word "kiss" is translated into Bulgarian as целу́вка (celúvka).
The noun целу́вка refers to a touch with the lips. When describing the action of kissing, you may use the verb целу́вам to indicate kissing a specific person or object, such as kissing a child.
Meaning: a touch with the lips (noun)
Which one should you use?
The verb целу́вам is transitive and used when you kiss someone specifically. In contrast, the reflexive form целу́вам се is used to express the idea of kissing each other or the act of being kissing.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
целу́вка is a feminine noun. To form the plural "kisses", use целу́вки. To make the noun definite, such as when saying "the kiss", add the suffix –та to create целу́вката.
How do you pronounce it?
celúvka
When do people say it?
In Bulgarian culture, it is common to actually exchange kisses on the cheeks when greeting friends and family members.
Did you know?
- In Bulgarian, the phrase целу́вам ти очите literally means 'I kiss your eyes' and is used as a very affectionate way to say goodbye to someone dear.
- The phrase целу́ване на ръката describes a kiss on the hand, a gesture historically reserved for nobility or elders to show deep respect.
- In the Bulgarian Orthodox Church, there is a specific ritual greeting known as the 'kiss of peace'.
Examples in context
- Тази целу́вка беше много сладка.Tazi tseluvka beshe mnogo sladka.That kiss was very sweet.
- Тя остави малка целу́вка на бузата ми.Tya ostavi malka tseluvka na buzata mi.She left a small kiss on my cheek.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “kiss” translations, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
