Why is a kiss called a Yankee Dime?

Answer 1

My mother (a Texan) used this expression to induce us to perform some chore. Once we realized that no actual dime was forthcoming, we felt cheated. That is why it’s a “Yankee” dime —

Answer 2

The phrase is thought to have originated in Texas after the War for Southern Independence, but some believe that it has older origins. A "Yankee dime" refers to a kiss that is of a trifling nature such as a brief peck on the cheek. It is often used to describe an insincere show of affection in the nature of a perfunctory kiss. To say that something "isn't worth a Yankee dime" is typically a put down. Remember, all things Yankee were, and to some extent remain, out of favor in Texas since the end of the war.

Some would posit that there is an even less generous genesis behind the use of the phrase. Yankees were widely thought to be commercial to the point of crassness in more genteel circles in the South. Associating a kiss as a form of payment has muted undertones that hint of the sale of affection. Given the genteel nature of the numerous Texas belles of all ages that I heard use this term frequently during my youth, I doubt that the phrase has such a scandalous origin.

Answer 3

Well, honey, a kiss isn't called a Yankee Dime. A Yankee Dime is actually a term used in the 19th century to refer to a counterfeit coin. So, next time someone tries to sell you a kiss for a Yankee Dime, tell them to take their counterfeit currency elsewhere.

Answer 4

The term "Yankee Dime" is not a commonly recognized or widely used term for a kiss. It is possible that it may be a regional or slang term specific to a certain group or community, but it does not have a widely accepted or documented origin. The term "Yankee" typically refers to someone from the northern United States, particularly the New England region, and "dime" could potentially refer to a small, insignificant amount of money, but without further context or evidence, it is difficult to provide a definitive explanation for why a kiss would be called a "Yankee Dime."