Traditionally, hand-kissing was very light, almost like an air-kiss. You’re probably going to catch the person off-guard since hand-kissing is so unusual these days. It’s hard to tell how someone will react when they’re caught off-guard, so keep that in mind!
You might seem a little stuck up or strange if you offer your hand to be kissed when you meet someone, especially in America!
For example, if you’re a woman attending a fancy opera in Vienna, a gentleman may kiss your hand as a greeting. This is traditional and respectful. [4] X Research source
If you’re an American man in Europe and you’ve never been a hand-kisser, don’t pick up the habit now. It will probably just seem awkward if you do. [6] X Research source
If the person is your significant other, gender roles aren’t really a factor at all. In most cases, your significant other will just think it’s sweet.
If old-fashioned chivalry is not your thing, just politely tell your date it makes you uncomfortable and laugh it off so they don’t get too embarrassed. In America, there’s no reason to kiss someone’s hand in a platonic situation unless you’re just joking around.
The tradition of hand-kissing as a greeting may still continue in European countries like Italy, Spain, and Austria. [11] X Research source
For example, in the 17th or 18th century, a man would have been expected to kiss the hand of a noblewoman.
