The gesture of lightly scratching another person’s palm can mean different things depending on culture and context. In some regions, especially between a man and a woman, it’s viewed as a discreet romantic or sexual signal—an unspoken way of expressing interest or attraction without using words. Because it’s subtle, people often interpret it as a private message meant only for the recipient.
However, this interpretation isn’t universal. In many places, the gesture has no special meaning at all and may simply be a spontaneous or playful movement with no deeper intention. The true significance depends entirely on the relationship, the setting, and the person’s intent. Without clear context, it’s best not to assume the gesture carries romantic implications.