A new scientific study exploring the evolution of kissing suggests that the act of lip-to-lip contact may be far older than previously believed. According to researchers, ape ancestors and later early humans such as Neanderthals likely engaged in kissing with friends, mates, and sexual partners.
The findings propose that kissing behavior could date back as far as 21 million years, emerging long before modern humans appeared. The study points to social bonding patterns observed in primates today, indicating that affectionate mouth-to-mouth contact was likely a shared behavior across ancient species.
Researchers say the gesture may have played an important role in strengthening social bonds, reducing tension, and supporting mating relationships throughout early human evolution.
The study adds new depth to our understanding of human intimacy, suggesting that kissing is not just a cultural creation but a deep-rooted biological behavior passed through millions of years of ancestry.