bacio

Bacio is the Italian noun for a kiss. In Italian, bacio denotes the act of kissing and can be used in romantic, affectionate, or ceremonial contexts. In everyday usage, people say "dare un bacio" (to give a kiss) and "bacio appassionato" (passionate kiss).

Etymology: The word derives from Latin basium, through the evolution of Old Italian; the masculine form bacio has a plural form baci, which is common when referring to multiple kisses. The related verb is baciare, "to kiss".

Cultural usage: Bacio commonly appears in literature, cinema, music, and advertising as a symbol of affection and romance. It is also used in various idioms and expressions in Italian culture. The concept of the kiss is central to many rituals, such as greetings or farewells in different contexts.

Confectionery: The term is also associated with Perugina's Baci, a famous Italian chocolate candy. Each piece contains a hazelnut center enrobed in chocolate and is wrapped with a piece of paper that traditionally includes a love note. In Italian, the singular "bacio" refers to the individual candy, while "baci" is the plural form used for multiple pieces.

Other uses: As a proper noun, Bacio may appear as a surname or place name in Italian-speaking regions, though such uses are less common and context-dependent.