Verbes français de base avec la méthode TPR

What does “un baiser” mean in French?

In French, “un baiser” means “a kiss” as a noun. In ordinary contexts it is polite and safe. You can give a kiss, get a kiss, or send one. But be careful: the verb “baiser” does NOT mean “to kiss” in normal speech. It is rude and means “to have sex.” To say “to kiss” you use “embrasser.” Keep “un baiser” as a noun, and use “embrasser” for the action.

In this simple lesson the speaker says “Donnez un baiser au chat” — “Give the cat a kiss.” Here the noun “un baiser” is normal and friendly. The word comes from the old Latin verb “basiare,” meaning to kiss. The trap is the verb form. Long ago “baiser” did mean “to kiss,” but over time the verb came to mean something rude. Today French speakers use “embrasser” for “to kiss”: “Je veux embrasser ma grand-mère” (I want to kiss my grandmother). They use the noun for the act: “un petit baiser” (a little kiss), “Bons baisers” (a friendly way to end a letter, like “love and kisses”). The easy rule: in normal, polite use the noun “un baiser” is safe; for the action, say “embrasser,” not the verb “baiser,” which is vulgar in modern speech.