What Are Examples of PDA? Common Gestures That Show Public Affection

What Does PDA Really Mean?
PDA stands for Public Display of Affection. You’ve probably heard the term thrown around, especially when someone comments, “Ugh, get a room!” But PDA isn’t always about being over the top — it simply refers to any affectionate act shown openly in public. Sometimes cute, sometimes awkward, always noticeable.
So… what actually counts as PDA? That’s where it gets interesting.
Common Types of PDA You’ll See Everywhere
Holding Hands
Honestly, this one’s a classic. Whether it’s high school sweethearts or a couple in their 70s strolling in the park, hand-holding is maybe the most universal and accepted form of PDA.
It says, “We're together,” without screaming it. (Unless you interlock fingers tightly and swing your arms like crazy — then maybe chill a bit.)
Kissing in Public
Alright, here’s where people start to disagree.
Quick peck on the lips? Usually fine.
Cheek kisses? Adorable and low-key.
Makeout session at the bus stop? Umm… probably not the best time or place.
There’s a thin line between sweet and cringey. And yes, I’ve been on both sides, oops.
Hugs and Cuddles
Long hugs, especially those full-body kind, can absolutely be PDA. Snuggling on a bench or leaning your head on someone’s shoulder? Also counts.
Though in some cultures, that kind of closeness might even be common between friends or family — context matters a lot.
Less Obvious Examples of PDA
Sitting too close
Like, there’s a whole bench and you two are squished in one corner? Yep, PDA. Body language says a lot.
Playing with someone’s hair
It’s subtle. But when one partner strokes the other's hair or plays with it in a public setting (like at a coffee shop), it's intimate enough to be noticed — and classified as PDA.
Whispering in ears
This one can be totally innocent or… not. It’s personal, close, and definitely makes observers go “hmm.”
Social media shoutouts
Now here’s a curveball: online PDA. Constantly posting selfies together, tagging each other with mushy captions — that’s digital affection. Not physical, sure, but public? Absolutely.
PDA Across Cultures and Settings
What counts as PDA in New York might be way too much in Dubai — or barely noticeable in Paris. Cultural norms shape how PDA is received. In some places, even hand-holding can spark outrage; in others, a full-on kiss in the street is no big deal.
Same goes for context. What’s fine at a music festival may feel super out of place in a library. (Trust me, been there. Never again.)
Is PDA Always Romantic?
Nope! It can totally be platonic. Friends who hug, link arms, or even kiss on the cheek — all of that can be PDA. It’s all about the public and the affection, not just romance.
When PDA Goes Too Far
There’s definitely a line. And while it’s subjective, common sense goes a long way. If people around you are uncomfortable — or if you wouldn’t do it in front of your grandma — maybe save it for later?
Final Thoughts: PDA is Human, But Keep It Cool
We’re wired to connect. PDA is part of that. Whether it's subtle gestures like holding hands or full-on snuggles, it shows affection, connection, and sometimes just plain love.
But yeah — like hot sauce, a little goes a long way. Use with care, feel the vibe of the moment, and remember: affection is sweetest when it’s shared, not shown off.
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Yes it is. Average height of male in India is 166.3 cm (i.e. 5 ft 5.5 inches) while for female it is 152.6 cm (i.e. 5 ft) approximately. So, as far as your question is concerned, aforesaid height is above average in both cases.
Is 165 cm normal for a 15 year old?
The predicted height for a female, based on your parents heights, is 155 to 165cm. Most 15 year old girls are nearly done growing. I was too. It's a very normal height for a girl.
Is 160 cm too tall for a 12 year old?
How Tall Should a 12 Year Old Be? We can only speak to national average heights here in North America, whereby, a 12 year old girl would be between 137 cm to 162 cm tall (4-1/2 to 5-1/3 feet). A 12 year old boy should be between 137 cm to 160 cm tall (4-1/2 to 5-1/4 feet).
How tall is a average 15 year old?
Average Height to Weight for Teenage Boys - 13 to 20 Years
Male Teens: 13 - 20 Years) | ||
---|---|---|
14 Years | 112.0 lb. (50.8 kg) | 64.5" (163.8 cm) |
15 Years | 123.5 lb. (56.02 kg) | 67.0" (170.1 cm) |
16 Years | 134.0 lb. (60.78 kg) | 68.3" (173.4 cm) |
17 Years | 142.0 lb. (64.41 kg) | 69.0" (175.2 cm) |
How to get taller at 18?
Staying physically active is even more essential from childhood to grow and improve overall health. But taking it up even in adulthood can help you add a few inches to your height. Strength-building exercises, yoga, jumping rope, and biking all can help to increase your flexibility and grow a few inches taller.
Is 5.7 a good height for a 15 year old boy?
Generally speaking, the average height for 15 year olds girls is 62.9 inches (or 159.7 cm). On the other hand, teen boys at the age of 15 have a much higher average height, which is 67.0 inches (or 170.1 cm).
Can you grow between 16 and 18?
Most girls stop growing taller by age 14 or 15. However, after their early teenage growth spurt, boys continue gaining height at a gradual pace until around 18. Note that some kids will stop growing earlier and others may keep growing a year or two more.
Can you grow 1 cm after 17?
Even with a healthy diet, most people's height won't increase after age 18 to 20. The graph below shows the rate of growth from birth to age 20. As you can see, the growth lines fall to zero between ages 18 and 20 ( 7 , 8 ). The reason why your height stops increasing is your bones, specifically your growth plates.