schmusen
to make out, to smooch, to canoodle
Intermediate Verb
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Pronunciation
/ˈʃmuːzn̩/
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Cultural Note
Schmusen falls between cuddling and making out — it implies affectionate kissing and physical closeness. It is softer than 'knutschen' (which is more explicitly making out) and warmer than 'kuscheln' (which is just cuddling). The word has Yiddish roots ('shmusen' = to chat/flatter). In some regions, 'Schmuser' is used affectionately for someone who loves physical closeness.
📝 Example Sentences
Die beiden haben im Park geschmust.
The two of them were smooching in the park.
Komm, lass uns ein bisschen schmusen.
Come on, let's cuddle and kiss a little.