Why is it called an angel kiss?

Answered by Arthur Reyes

The term “angel kiss” is often used to describe a mark or birthmark that appears on the back of a baby's neck. But why is it called an angel kiss? The name actually stems from a mythological belief that storks deliver babies to parents. According to this myth, storks would pick up babies by the back of their necks, just like a cat picks up its kittens. The mark left behind by the stork's beak was seen as a gentle kiss from an angel, hence the name “angel kiss.”

The concept of storks delivering babies has been a popular myth for centuries, with various cultures and folklore embracing this idea. In many tales, storks are depicted as graceful and caring birds that carefully transport newborns to their eagerly awaiting parents. This imagery has been ingrained in our collective consciousness, and the idea of a stork leaving a mark on a baby's neck has become associated with the term “angel kiss.”

The mark itself is often a small, reddish or pinkish patch on the back of the neck. It can vary in shape and size, and may fade or disappear as the child grows older. While the exact cause of these marks is not fully understood, they are generally considered harmless and are often just a temporary condition.

As a sommelier and brewer, I find it intriguing how certain names and myths can shape our perception and understanding of things. The term “angel kiss” adds a touch of whimsy and magic to the idea of birthmarks, connecting them to the mythical world of storks and angels. It's interesting to see how folklore and cultural beliefs can influence the way we interpret and name certain phenomena.

The term “angel kiss” is used to describe a mark or birthmark on a baby's neck. It derives from the mythological belief that storks deliver babies and leave behind a gentle mark as a symbol of their delivery. While the actual cause of these marks is not fully understood, the name “angel kiss” adds a touch of enchantment to the phenomenon, connecting it to the realm of angels and mythical creatures.