# kiss of death

> English word · Noun

## Definitions
1. A kiss on the cheek that signifies the death of the receiver, as delivered by a mob boss or one with such influence.
2. Something that may seem good and favorable but that actually brings ruin to hopes, plans, etc.

## Etymology
From the Biblical reference that when Judas Iscariot betrayed Jesus, he kissed Jesus.

## Source
Compiled from Wiktionary via kaikki.org (CC BY-SA). Data vintage: 2026-05-06.
Canonical page: https://plainspell.com/en/word/kiss-of-death