kiss and cry: Idiom Meaning and Origin

The idiom "kiss and cry" is often used in the context of figure skating competitions. It refers to the area where skaters receive their scores and often share emotional moments with their coaches, friends, or family members. The phrase is a combination of two actions – kissing and crying – which symbolize the joy and relief of success as well as the disappointment and sadness of failure.

The exact origin of the idiom is difficult to determine, but it is believed to have originated in the mid-20th century in the world of figure skating. The term gained popularity and became widely recognized through the coverage of televised figure skating competitions, particularly the Olympic Games.

The usage of "kiss and cry" extends beyond figure skating and can be applied to any situation where individuals experience a mix of intense emotions resulting from success or failure. However, it is most commonly associated with sports and competitions where athletes have to wait for their scores or results.

The idiom itself carries a sense of dichotomy, portraying the extreme emotional contrast that can occur within a short period of time. It highlights the vulnerability and human aspect of performance, reminding us that even the most skilled individuals are not immune to the rollercoaster of emotions.

Furthermore, the idiom serves as a reminder that success and failure are intertwined and that it is often the pursuit of excellence that brings out these intense emotions. The "kiss" in the idiom represents celebration, recognition, and the reward of hard work, while the "cry" represents disappointment, frustration, or tears of relief.

So why do people specifically "kiss" and "cry" in this context? Kissing is often seen as an expression of love, affection, and celebration. It symbolizes the moment of triumph, when the hard work and dedication pay off. On the other hand, crying is a natural response to overwhelming emotions, be it tears of joy or tears of disappointment. It represents a release of pent-up emotions and shows the depth of an individual's investment in their performance.

The idiom "kiss and cry" encapsulates the complex range of emotions experienced in moments of success or failure, particularly in the world of figure skating and competitive sports. It highlights the human element of performance and serves as a reminder that even the most accomplished individuals are susceptible to the rollercoaster of emotions.

One related idiom to "kiss and cry" is "kiss and make up". This idiom is often used when two people have been in a disagreement and decide to reconcile, usually through an act of affection such as a kiss or hug. In the context of figure skating, "kiss and make up" may refer to the moments of reconciliation and support that can occur between skaters and their coaches or teammates after a disappointing performance. It symbolizes the ability to put differences aside and move forward with renewed determination.

Another related idiom to "kiss and cry" is "throw a kiss". This idiom is used to describe the action of blowing a kiss toward someone as a gesture of affection or farewell. In the context of figure skating competitions, skaters often "throw a kiss" to the audience or their loved ones in the audience after a successful performance. It is a way to express gratitude and share the joy of the moment with those who have supported them.

The idiom "kiss and cry" and its related idioms, "kiss and make up" and "throw a kiss", all revolve around the themes of emotions, affection, and human connection. They highlight the power of gestures and actions to convey complex feelings and experiences. Whether it's the intense emotions experienced in moments of success and failure, the act of reconciling after a disagreement, or the expression of gratitude and love, these idioms remind us of the universal aspects of the human experience.

"kiss and cry" is an idiom that captures the intense emotions experienced in moments of success and failure, especially in the world of figure skating. It originated in the mid-20th century and gained popularity through televised figure skating competitions. The idiom represents a dichotomy of emotions, highlighting the vulnerability and human aspect of performance. It serves as a reminder that success and failure are intertwined and that even the most accomplished individuals can experience the rollercoaster of emotions. The related idioms, "kiss and make up" and "throw a kiss", further explore themes of affection and connection. Together, they remind us of the power of emotions and gestures in our everyday lives.