osculate

 
Pronunciation: /ˈɒskjʊleɪt/

verb

[with object]
  • 1 Mathematics (of a curve or surface) touch (another curve or surface) so as to have a common tangent at the point of contact: (as adjective osculating) the plots have been drawn using osculating orbital elements
  • 2 formal or humorous kiss.

Derivatives

osculant

adjective

osculation

noun

osculatory

Pronunciation: /ˈɒskjʊlət(ə)ri/
adjective

Origin:

mid 17th century: from Latin osculat- 'kissed', from the verb osculari, from osculum 'little mouth or kiss'