15 Types of Kiss on the Forehead: Possible Meanings & Reasons

Isn’t it a wonderful feeling to be kissed? It’s such a personal thing that creates a strong intimate bond with someone. We also get a boost of self-esteem because a kiss releases extra oxytocin in our brains, otherwise known as the happy hormone. 

What about a forehead kiss, though? Have you been left wondering what does a kiss on the forehead means?

Read here the different types of kisses on the forehead and the possible reasons behind each.

What does a kiss on the forehead mean?

The psychology behind kissing the forehead can be different under different circumstances. 

Whether on a first date or a married couple’s date, a kiss on the forehead can be a casual expression of warmth or a timid way of expressing interest. 

Dionne Eleanor, Relationship Expert, explains,

A kiss on the forehead stands as a powerful gesture of appreciation and respect because it doesn’t assume the engagement or reciprocation of the other person, unlike a kiss on the lips. It’s a selfless act, offering comfort and affection without the expectation of anything in return. This makes it an intimate yet respectful expression of deep care and consideration.

Although, it can also be a sign that something has gone wrong. We prefer a feel-good kiss with a rush of oxytocin. 

To assess the meaning when he or she kisses your forehead, you must assess the equation you share, the circumstances surrounding the kiss, and the behavior after the kiss. 

15 types of kisses and their meaning

A kiss on the forehead can mean very different things under various circumstances. This can sometimes cause confusion and misunderstandings, as you and the other person might interpret the kiss differently. 

So, let’s look at some of the types of forehead kisses and the meaning behind them:

1. Appreciation

Everyone loves a kiss on the lips, but it often comes with sexual tones and desires. Of course, there’s nothing wrong with that. Nevertheless, we all know that deep love and intimacy are so much more than just physical attraction. A forehead kiss shows that appreciation and deeper connection beautifully.

Related Reading: 8 Ways to Show Appreciation to the Love of Your Life

2. Desire to care for you

When asking yourself what a kiss on the forehead means, consider your partner’s role as protector.

After all, relationships are a balance between being vulnerable and trusting each other. Without companionship and mutual support, most relationships will probably fizzle out. Moreover, the ‘kiss on the head’ is a beautiful way to show their desire to care for each other.

3. Respect and loyalty

Perhaps you’ve just walked away from your first date, and you’re left wondering about the meaning of a forehead kiss from a guy or girl. Even if you were hoping for something more, a kiss on the head, in this case, could be to show you respect.

Believe it or not, even the most confident-looking guys get nervous. It’s possible that when a guy kisses your forehead, they’re looking for the first sign from you.

They still want to share a connection with you, though, while demonstrating loyalty. So, the meaning of a kiss on the forehead becomes the perfect signal for future dates.

4. A timid first step

Yes, kissing a girl on the forehead could be a lack of confidence. If they care deeply for you, they could be taking it slowly. After all, the anticipation of more can be fun and enticing, so why not enjoy the gradual build-up?

5. A special token

The meaning of different kisses has been researched and debated since the Kamasutra. Although, most agree that it’s both a sign of protection and something more.

Some have even gone as far as saying that it’s a special token of a deeper attraction and maybe even real love. Ultimately, passion and lust fade away with time, but an emotional connection lasts forever.

In those cases, there is already a deeper relationship

6. Genuine support

Let’s remember that married couples take time out from daily chores and kids to go on dates to spend quality time together. There already is a deeper relationship in those cases so you could be talking about a difficult time at work or with the kids.

That’s when your partner might give you a deep and caring kiss on the head. Essentially, they want to show that they’re there for you no matter what.

7. A deep connection

Some believe that the forehead kiss activates your Third Eye or, in scientific terms, the pineal gland. This little pinecone-shaped gland is located in the center of your brain and helps control your sleep patterns.

While the third eye connection is still being debated, we indeed feel all fuzzy and warm inside when someone kisses us on the head.

It would help if you still were up close and personal for that kiss, which creates deep intimacy. Of course, that’s further enhanced if you’re also embracing your partner, especially if you’re spiritually connected.

If you’re still wondering about the third eye connection, then check out this stunning video and decide for yourself:

8. Memorable and different

The meaning behind a kiss on the forehead can also be as simple as wanting to do something unusual.

A kiss on the head can take you by surprise in a pleasant way. Moreover, you’re going to remember a first date who does that. If nothing else, you’ll be talking about it for days with your friends as you debate the meaning of it all.

Related Reading: What Makes a Woman Memorable to a Man? 15 Qualities

9. Release the tension

First dates can be truly terrifying. There are so many expectations and potential mishaps. Wouldn’t we all love a rule book with clear definitions and guidelines?

People are all so different, though, with a wide range of needs and insecurities. That’s why some partners go for a kiss on the head. It can help break the tension and make you feel more at ease.

10. Trying to find out more

If you want to know whether a kiss on the forehead means I love you, why not find out? Nothing is stopping you from leaning in for the lips.

Sometimes new partners might be tentatively testing the waters with a kiss on the head just to gauge your reaction. So, why not respond with what you also want?

11. A sign of friendship

It’s worth noting that, like most things in life, there’s a potential dark side. That’s also the case when asking, “What do forehead kisses mean?” That’s why a kiss on the head is often debated.

Essentially, it can simply be a show of friendship that some people use at the end of a date to avoid just awkwardly shaking hands, for instance. Instead, they want to make a kind gesture while saying they don’t want to take things further.

Therefore, rather than just saying goodbye and walking away, they go for the kiss on the head. It’s a pleasant way to say that they had a good time. Although, you can usually tell the difference between a romantic forehead kiss by how close they lean into you.

Related Reading: 15 Signs of Friendship Turning Into Love

12. Power and control

Did you ever have that old uncle or one of your parents’ friends who would come up to you and kiss you on the head as a child?

Perhaps it was a pleasant experience, or, on the contrary, maybe you felt belittled. Many people sadly want to control others. They enjoy giving themselves the impression of power in relationships.

If that’s your date, you’ll usually be able to pick up the signs. For example, do they only talk about themselves and treat the servers rudely? 

Did they ask about you and your interests or just talk incessantly about themselves? Then again, some people can be charming and appear attentive, but little things give them away as controlling.

13. Uncertainty

Communication is key to any relationship, regardless of whether it’s romantic or platonic. So, ask yourself what you’re communicating on a date. Perhaps you’re giving off confusing signals that your partner isn’t sure how to read. Therefore, they go in for a slightly safer kiss on the head.

That’s why, if you feel you want to clarify your readiness for more,  you can consider leaning in for a kiss on the lips. After all, you’re also part of this duo dance, so rather than asking yourself what a kiss on the forehead means, why not go and find out?

14. Manipulation

Sadly, some people have altered motives when they engage in physical intimacy, and so they’ll do anything to charm you with sweet gestures.  A kiss on the forehead is a relatively safe way to test your response to intimate touch.

Related Reading: 20 Signs of Emotional Manipulation in Relationships and How to Deal With It

Check out this video to learn about some examples of emotional manipulation:

15. Random adoration

Lastly, let’s not forget that most people have good intentions. Sometimes a partner might just be so caught up in the moment that they randomly kiss you on the forehead. It’s a pure, beautiful, and straightforward act of adoration that’s full of romance.

Some commonly asked questions

A forehead kiss can mean various things. It can be an expression of platonic warmth, a timid initiation of intimacy or many other things. The answers to certain pressing questions can give you some clarity about forehead kisses. 

• Is it okay to kiss a girl on the forehead?

Yes, it is okay to kiss a girl on the forehead, as long as you are not violating her personal space and it doesn’t make her feel uncomfortable. 

Dionne Eleanor, a Relationship Expert, states,

Consent is crucial for relationships to feel safe and go deeper.

If you bring up this issue in relationship counseling, it will become clear that a forehead kiss can help you convey warmth and affection for a person. However, this action is necessary to ensure that you don’t hurt the other person. 

• Does a forehead kiss mean love?

A forehead kiss can mean love, but it may also convey warmth or affection for another person. Love is not the only motivation behind a forehead kiss. It can mean many different things.

• How do you initiate a forehead kiss?

If you want to initiate a forehead kiss, make sure that you maintain eye contact with the other person while moving towards them. Assess their reaction to your proximity and look for discomfort or distancing from their end. 

If the other person gives you signs of mutual acknowledgment, then you may lean forward and plant a gentle forehead kiss. But if there are any indications of discomfort, disgust, or lack of understanding about your intentions. 

Final thoughts

The art of kissing and dating can sometimes be full of questions, innuendos, and doubts. This is why exploring what kissing on the forehead means is an important question to explore.

Regardless, the best thing you can do is be yourself and be as open as possible without being afraid to ask questions or go for what you want.

Then again, watch your partner’s body language and listen to their words to know if a kiss means something different to them. You’re bound to pick up some clues about their true intent.

From there, you’ll have a better chance of aligning yourself and finding a partner who respects you for who you are. Then, you won’t need to second-guess yourself by overthinking, and you can just go in for the kiss you want.