Pronunciation

/ˈdʒestʃər/

Definitions

• Noun: A movement or position of the body, especially of the hands or face, to express an idea, emotion, or intention. For example: “He made a dismissive gesture with his hand.”

  • As a figurative use, it can also refer to an action intended to convey a message or meaning beyond the literal act itself. For example: “Her resignation was seen as a protest gesture against the company’s policies.”

• Verb: To make a movement or signal with one’s body, typically a hand movement, to express something non-verbally. For example: “She gestured towards the door, indicating that we should leave.”

  • It can also mean to indicate or suggest something indirectly through actions rather than words. For example: “His behavior gestures at a deeper emotional struggle.”

Phrases

• “A gesture of goodwill” implies an action taken to show friendly intentions or reconcile differences.
• “A symbolic gesture” denotes an action done primarily for its emblematic significance rather than practical effect.
• “Gesture control” refers to technology that interprets physical movements to control devices, often found in interactive systems.

Example Sentences

• Noun: “The child smiled and made a waving gesture when she saw her mother across the playground.”
• Verb: “The teacher gestured for the students to take their seats before starting the lesson.”

Synonyms

• Movement
• Signal
• Motion
• Sign
• Wink
• Nod
• Wave
• Mimicry
• Body language
• Nonverbal communication