The kiss of life

usgb
noun

An act of breathing into a person's mouth to make them begin to breathe again or to fill their lungs with air when they cannot breathe on their own. It's like what people do in emergency medical situations to try to save someone's life.

The lifeguard pulled the drowning man from the water and immediately began to give him the kiss of life.
Visual representation of "the kiss of life" - An act of breathing into a person's mouth to make them begin to breathe again or to fill their lungs with air when they cannot breathe on their own. It's like what people do in emergency medical situations to try to save someone's life.

Often appears as...

  • give someone the kiss of life
  • receive the kiss of life
Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "the kiss of life"
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Emergency Use

It refers specifically to a life-saving technique, often used in critical, urgent situations.

Illustration for Emergency Use
He was unconscious, so the paramedic gave him the kiss of life.
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Literal Action

It involves actual physical contact and the act of breathing into someone's mouth.

Illustration for Literal Action
After the accident, the woman received the kiss of life from a bystander.
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Medical Relevance

Used in medical contexts or discussions about lifesaving techniques.

Illustration for Medical Relevance
In first aid training, you'll learn how to perform the kiss of life.
Visual representation of the word "The kiss of life"

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