This is the 18159th most frequent Russian word.
целовать
To kiss.
The verb 'поцеловать' is used here in the sense of initiating an act of kissing as a decision in a specific context, showcasing a deliberate action with the aspect of completion.
Он решил поцеловать её перед тем, как уехать.
He decided to kiss her before leaving.
The verb 'целовать' is used here to indicate a habitual or repeated action of kissing occurring in the present tense, reflecting a regular practice.
Дети часто целуют своих родителей на ночь.
Children often kiss their parents goodnight.
The verb 'целовал' represents a past repeated action in imperfective aspect, illustrating the nature of the action as typical or occurring multiple times in a similar manner.