Top 10 Arm Around Shoulder Meanings (With Images)

What does an arm around your shoulder mean? Is it a sign of affection? Are you just comfortable to lean on? I asked myself these questions and realized that sometimes actions speak louder than words.

So I did a deep dive. Here is the absolute best meaning, plus the top 10 reasons for you to consider when a guy puts his arm around your shoulder.

Arm Around Shoulder Meaning

When someone places their arm around your shoulder it means they sincerely like and care for you, they feel comfortable with you, they enjoy being close with you, they are being affectionate, and you are safe and secure while with them. 

What Does It Mean When a Guy Puts His Arm Around Your Shoulder?

1. He Wants to Touch You

When a guy wants to make physical contact with you, arm over shoulder is a very casual way to do it.

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2. He’s Being Friendly

When a guy wraps his arm around your shoulder it may just be a friendly gesture. He could be showing that he cares for you as a friend.

3. He Likes You

He has feelings for you and wants to let you know. He likes you more than a friend, and putting his arm around your shoulder is one way for him to show his interest.

4. He’s Showing Affection

He cares for you deeply; a shoulder embrace is a good way to physically show his warmth and affection for you.

5. He Is Flirting With You

Any form of touching may be flirtation coming from a guy. Consider the relationship you have with him and the surrounding conversation to decide.

6. He Is Comforting You

Maybe you are going through something, or you had a rough day, and he is trying to cheer you up. He puts arm around your shoulder is to show sympathy and his support.

7. He Is Testing You

A guy’s greatest fear in life is rejection. Putting his arm around you is a great way to innocently touch you, and see your response, before making any further moves.

8. He Is Signaling Other Guys

He is being somewhat possessive and wants other guys to know that you are together. He is essentially claiming his territory and saying “she is mine.”

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9. He Is Being Protective

When he puts his arm around you he is saying, “you can count on me, I have your back.”

10. He Is Guiding You

As you walk together he is guiding the direction and path you take. He is simply being a man.

He Put His Arm Around Me – How to Respond

Frequently Asked Questions

What Does Arm Around Shoulder Mean in Body Language?

In terms of body language, arm around shoulder shows open body language, as opposed to crossing your arms, which shows closed body language.

Arm around shoulder means the person feels close and comfortable with you, and genuinely cares for you.

More Info: Science of People

What Does It Mean When a Girl Puts Her Arm Around Your Shoulder?

When a girl puts her arm around your shoulder it shows she is comfortable being with you, she likes you, she wants to show her affection, she feels a bond with you, and she wants others to see how she feels.

Conclusion

When considering the “arm around shoulder meaning,” take into account your relationship with the person and your feelings for them. The most important thing is for you to feel comfortable.