The art of ‘Kerasma’: How the Greeks show their affection and why

·

Across cultures, there are many ways that people show love and affection to each other and strangers. In Greece, we call this ‘Kerasma’.

The act of ‘Kerasma’ means ‘to be treated’ and the Greeks use this in a way to show affection either an indirect form of flirting, or they enjoy your company and they are indicating the outreach for friendship.

Kerasma is usually the reason you’ll see a group of friends fighting over a bill at a café, arguing who will get to ‘treat’ the other first. Its best not to fight, but to say thank you and wait to ‘kerasi’ the next turn.

When you receive the act of ‘Kerasma’, the polite thing to do is to accept and enjoy what you have been treated to, whether it be a drink, coffee or sweet.

The etymology of the word ‘kerasma’ leads us to the ancient Greek word ‘keras’ which was a horn that was used as a container in which wine was saved.

The person who would then serve wine mixed with water from the ‘keras’ to the guests’ cups was known as the ‘kerastis’.

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

Cyprus Community of South Australia’s Ladies Auxiliary celebrates 50 years

The Cyprus Community of SA celebrated the 50th anniversary of its Ladies Auxiliary with an afternoon tea attended by over 200 guests.

Metropolitan Apostolos of Miletus honoured for 40 years of service

The 40th anniversary of His Eminence Metropolitan Apostolos of Miletus’ episcopal consecration was celebrated in Sydney on Tuesday.

George Ellis earns ARIA nod for ‘Mimi’s Symphony’

Acclaimed Greek Australian conductor George Ellis is enjoying a milestone month, marked by an ARIA Award nomination.

Saint Andrew’s Theological College marks 40 years with anniversary dinner in Sydney

Saint Andrew’s Theological College celebrated its 40th anniversary with an official dinner at La Montage Reception Hall in Sydney.

Greek Culture Minister returns to Australia for anniversary of ‘Our People Their Stories’

Greece’s Minister of Culture, Lina Mendoni, is set to return to Australia to mark one-year of the GOAA’s “living museum.”

You May Also Like

Back-to-back victories for South Melbourne FC

South Melbourne FC claimed back-to-back victories in the Victorian National Premier Leagues after defeating Moreland City 1-0.

Eleven Greek researchers among the most influential in 2020

Eleven Greek researchers have been named among the most highly cited scientists in the world, according to Clarivate Analytics.

Greek Australian youth set the example in NSW by getting vaccinated against COVID-19

The Greek Herald reached out to Greek Australian youth and students who have already received their vaccinations.