Beck Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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beck
[bek ]
Definitions
to call or summon
To beckon is to gesture or signal to someone to come closer or follow. It can also mean to call someone with a hand gesture or nod.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| beck |
Used in older or more formal English, 'beck' refers to a slight motion or gesture of the hand intended to signal or instruct someone. It's often used in phrases like 'at someone's beck and call,' implying complete obedience or readiness to comply.
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| signal |
This term often refers to a sign or action used to convey information or instructions. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts, such as communicating between drivers on the road or coordinating in a team setting.
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| gesture |
A broad term used to describe any movement of the body, particularly the hands or head, to express an idea, emotion, or instruction. It can be used in both positive and negative contexts.
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| summon |
This word is more formal and often implies authority, urgency, or an official request. It is used when someone is called to come, often by a higher authority or in an official capacity.
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Examples of usage
- He beckoned to the waiter for the bill.
- She beckoned for her friend to join her at the table.
a gesture of beckoning
A beck is a beckoning or summoning gesture, typically done with a hand or nod.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| beck |
This can be used in literary or historical contexts, often to imply a slight movement or gesture meant to indicate something without words. It might carry a touch of old-fashioned or formal tone.
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| signal |
This word is suitable for any form of indication or sign, varying from traffic signals to subtle gestures that communicate a message. It generally covers a broader range of indications than the others.
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| gesture |
This is a versatile term used for any motion of the hand, head, or body that conveys a message or feeling. Can be used in varied situations, from casual to formal.
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| nod |
This term is best used when describing the action of moving the head up and down to agree, acknowledge, or greet. It often implies a simple and brief movement.
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Examples of usage
- She gave a beck to the children to follow her.
- The beck from the stage signaled the end of the performance.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- In Shakespeare's plays, characters often beckon to one another to convey urgent messages, illustrating its dramatic significance.
- Modern novels frequently use gestures like beckoning to highlight tension or connection between characters.
- Poets frequently use the concept of beckoning to symbolize fate or destiny calling someone on a journey.
Psychology
- Studies suggest that non-verbal gestures like beckoning can enhance communication and rapport among people.
- Beckoning can evoke feelings of inclusion or exclusion, depending on how and when it is used in social contexts.
- Research indicates that people often respond faster to gestures than to spoken commands, reinforcing the power of non-verbal cues.
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, different gestures for beckoning can have varying meanings, showcasing the importance of context.
- In some Eastern cultures, beckoning with the palm up is considered polite, while in others, it may be seen as rude.
- Festivals and gatherings often highlight gestures of beckoning as a way of signaling welcome, friendship, and community.
Origin of 'beck'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from Old Norse 'bekkr', meaning a stream or brook, hinting at its fluidity in movement.
- In Middle English, 'becken' meant to summon, reflecting how the gesture attracts attention.
- In the 18th century, the word began to take on its current form related to gestures and beckoning.
The word 'beck' originated from Middle English, derived from the Old Norse word 'bekkr' meaning 'a beckoning'. It has been used since the 14th century in English literature to describe a gesture of calling or summoning. Over time, the word has evolved to represent a simple and effective way of signaling or gesturing to someone. Today, 'beck' is commonly used in everyday language to express the action of calling or summoning someone with a gesture.
See also: beckon.