Ways to say it
| German | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Kuss | [kʰʊs] (narrow) | masculine |
| Busserl | [ˈbʊsɐl] (narrow) | neuter |
| Bussi | neuter |
The term refers to a touch with the lips. You may also encounter the verb sich küssen to describe the act of touching each other's lips, or küssen to mean touching something lightly.
Which one should you use?
While Kuss is the standard masculine noun, Busserl and Bussi are neuter. Schmatzer is used specifically for a louder, smacking-type of kiss.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
Bussi and Busserl are informal. Schmatzer is an informal term used within families or between lovers.
Is it said differently in some regions?
Busserl is a diminutive form used primarily in Austria and Southern Germany (Bavaria). In the Cologne region, the term Bützje is used for a peck or a small kiss, particularly during the carnival season.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
Kuss is a masculine noun. Its plural form is Küsse.
When do people say it?
In written communication, Bussi! is often used as a friendly sign-off.
Did you know?
- The word Schmatzer describes a loud smacking kiss and is derived from the German verb schmatzen, which means to smack one's lips while eating.
- The root of Busserl may be related to the Slavic words for kiss, such as the Czech pusa.
- In Southern Germany and Austria, Busserl is frequently used as a term of endearment for children or elderly relatives, not just romantic partners.
Examples in context
- Gib mir einen Kuss!Give me a kiss.This sentence shows how to request a Kuss.Tatoeba #1846387 by Tamy, translation #1844204 by CK
- Danke für den Kuss!Thanks for the kiss.This sentence is useful for expressing gratitude after receiving a Kuss.Tatoeba #3351654 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #3347612 by Hybrid
- Es war nur ein Kuss.It was just a kiss.This sentence uses Kuss to describe the nature of an action.Tatoeba #6734034 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #2953067 by CK
- Ich möchte Ihnen einen Kuss auf die Wange geben.I would like to give you a kiss on the cheek.
- Darf ich Ihnen ein Bussi auf die Stirn geben?May I give you a little kiss on the forehead?
- Komm her und gib mir einen Schmatzer!Come here and give me a smooch!
- Komm her, ich geb' dir ein süßes Busserl!Come here, I'll give you a sweet little kiss!
- 141 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Julian and Hannah are saying goodbye at the door.
- JulianEin Kuss für mich, bevor du gehst?A kiss for me before you go?
- HannahKlar, gerne!Sure, I'd love to!
- JulianDas war ein sehr süßer Kuss.That was a very sweet kiss.
- HannahIch freue mich schon auf das nächste Mal.I'm already looking forward to the next time.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “kiss” translations and entries Kuss, Busserl, Bussi, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Busserl, Bussi, Kuss, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
