beso de despedida

/ˈbe.so ðe ðes.pe.ˈði.ða/
noun phraseIntermediate farewell kiss
neutral

A kiss given when saying goodbye to someone.

Al final de la cita, él le dio un beso de despedida en la mejilla.

At the end of the date, he gave her a farewell kiss on the cheek.

💡

Commonly used in both formal and informal contexts, especially in romantic or close relationships.

Collocations

un beso de despedidaa farewell kissdar un beso de despedidato give a farewell kiss

Related Phrases

beso en la mejillaphrase
a kiss on the cheek
despedidaword
farewell or goodbye

💡Pro Tip

Cultural Context

In many Spanish-speaking cultures, physical affection like kisses and hugs is common during farewells, even between acquaintances. This differs from cultures where handshakes or verbal goodbyes are the norm.

Gold Rule

Literal vs. Figurative Meaning

The phrase 'beso de despedida' is literal—it refers to an actual kiss given when saying goodbye. It is not an idiom or metaphor.

📖Word Origin

The phrase is a compound of 'beso' (kiss) and 'despedida' (farewell, derived from the verb 'despedir' meaning 'to say goodbye'). The term has been used in Spanish since at least the 19th century, reflecting a common cultural practice of expressing affection during parting.

📝Usage Notes

This phrase is widely understood across Spanish-speaking cultures. In some regions, it may be shortened to just 'beso de adiós' or 'beso de despedir'. The gesture is often accompanied by a hug or a wave.

Word Breakdown

beso
kiss
root
+
de
of
preposition
+
despedida
farewell
noun (derived from verb despedir)
Diccionario Español-Inglés