noun / verb
gesture
JES-cher/ˈdʒestʃər/
A bodily movement that communicates an intention or feeling.
Her welcoming gesture makes the nervous visitor feel at ease.
Etymology
From 'bearing' or 'behavior,' gesture first described how someone carried the body. Its meaning narrowed to an expressive bodily movement, then extended to an action expressing feeling or goodwill.
In context
sometimes a person may rest the back of their hands on their hips with Palms facing out a gesture like this usually means that someone is annoyed
More examples
- He gestures toward the door when it is time to leave.
- She spreads her hands in a gesture of confusion.
- The coach gestured for the players to come closer.
Forms
gesture · gestures · gestured · gesturing
gestural adjective — Relating to expressive bodily movements.