kiss and make up: Idiom Meaning and Origin

What does ‘kiss and make up’ mean?

Kiss and make up - This idiom means to reconcile or resolve a conflict after an argument or disagreement, usually by expressing forgiveness or apologizing.

Idiom Explorer

Unveiling Reconciliation

The idiom "kiss and make up" is a commonly used expression in the English language to describe the act of reconciling or resolving a conflict in a relationship by making peace with each other. This phrase is believed to have originated from the physical act of kissing someone to symbolize reconciliation, while the use of the word "make up" refers to the act of resolving differences and restoring harmony in the relationship.

The exact origin of this idiom is unclear, but it is believed to have emerged in the early 20th century. Regardless of its origins, "kiss and make up" has become a popular and widely recognized expression in the English language, particularly when it comes to resolving conflicts or disagreements in various contexts.

When someone uses the idiom "kiss and make up," it implies a willingness and desire to resolve conflicts peacefully. It suggests a recognition of the importance of maintaining harmonious relationships and letting go of past grievances. This idiom is often used figuratively to describe the process of resolving conflicts or disagreements in personal relationships, business partnerships, or even diplomatic negotiations.

They kissed and made up, resolving their conflict.

Furthermore, the idiom "kiss and make up" is closely related to the idiom "make it up to." When someone says they will "make it up to" someone else, they are expressing their desire to compensate or make amends for a past wrong or disappointment.

Both idioms emphasize the importance of restoration, forgiveness, and maintaining harmonious connections. However, while "kiss and make up" focuses on the act of reconciling and resolving conflicts in relationships, "make it up to" emphasizes making amends for past mistakes or disappointments.

Additionally, another related idiom is "blow a kiss." This phrase is often used to symbolize the act of sending someone a kiss through the air, typically by kissing one's hand and blowing it towards the recipient. It is often used as a friendly gesture or to express affectionate feelings towards someone.

When it comes to the relationship between "kiss and make up" and "blow a kiss," both idioms involve the act of kissing. However, while "kiss and make up" refers to resolving conflicts in relationships, "blow a kiss" is a gesture used to express affection or goodwill towards someone.

The idiom "kiss and make up" is a widely recognized expression in the English language that describes the act of reconciling or resolving conflicts in relationships. It emphasizes the importance of restoring harmony and allowing forgiveness to prevail. Additionally, this idiom is related to the idioms "make it up to" and "blow a kiss," which focus on making amends and expressing affection respectively. These idioms highlight the complexities and importance of human relationships, as well as the power of forgiveness and goodwill.

Example usage

Examples of how the idiom "kiss and make up" can be used in a sentence:

  1. After their big argument, they realized it was time to kiss and make up.
  2. The two siblings had a fight, but eventually they decided to kiss and make up.
  3. It's always better to resolve conflicts by kissing and making up rather than holding grudges.

More "Reconciliation" idioms