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Beckon Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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beckon

[หˆbษ›kษ™n ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

gesture

To make a gesture with the hand, arm, or head to encourage someone to come nearer or follow.

Synonyms

gesture, invite, signal.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
beckon

Beckon is typically used when you want someone to approach or follow you, often by using a hand movement or nodding.

  • She beckoned him to come closer.
  • The guide beckoned the tourists to follow him.
signal

Signal is often used to describe any action or sign that conveys a message, especially in operational or tactical scenarios. It can be a hand movement, light, sound, or other indicators.

  • He gave the signal to start the operation.
  • The coach signaled the player to take a break.
gesture

Gesture is a more general term that refers to any physical movement to convey a message or emotion. This can include hand signs, facial expressions, or body postures.

  • He made a gesture to indicate that he was listening.
  • Her friendly gesture was appreciated by everyone.
invite

Invite is used when asking someone to join an event, activity, or location. It is more formal and typically used for social gatherings or events.

  • She invited her friends to her birthday party.
  • They invited him to join their book club.

Examples of usage

  • She beckoned to the waiter for the check.
  • The lighthouse keeper beckoned to the ships with his lantern.
Context #2 | Noun

summoning

A gesture made with the hand, arm, or head to signal someone to come nearer or follow.

Synonyms

gesture, invitation, signal.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
beckon

Beckon is typically used when you want to gesture someone to come closer or follow you, often with a slight movement of the hand or head.

  • She beckoned him to come over to her table
  • The teacher beckoned the students to gather around
signal

Signal can refer to any action, gesture, or device used to convey instructions, warnings, or information. It is often more formal or mechanical than beckon or gesture.

  • The traffic lights signaled the cars to stop
  • He gave the signal for the team to start the operation
gesture

Gesture is a broad term that refers to any movement of the hands, arms, or head used to convey a message or feeling. It doesn't necessarily imply calling someone closer.

  • He made a gesture of approval with his thumbs up
  • She thanked him with a gentle nod and a friendly gesture
invitation

Invitation is used to describe a formal or informal request for someone to join an event, activity, or gathering. It usually suggests a polite and welcoming tone.

  • She sent out invitations to her birthday party
  • The invitation to the conference was very formal

Examples of usage

  • With a beckon of her hand, she signaled for him to approach.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Culture

  • In many cultures, beckoning is a universal gesture, often using a hand motion to invite or summon.
  • In some regions, different hand gestures or motions have specific meanings, showcasing cultural diversity in communication.
  • Famous artworks, such as Edward Hopperโ€™s 'Nighthawks', capture moments of beckoning in social contexts, reflecting loneliness and connection.

Psychology

  • Gestures like beckoning can create a feeling of belonging, as it invites individuals to join a group.
  • Research shows that non-verbal cues, like beckoning, are often more powerful than words in conveying emotions.
  • People are generally more receptive to individuals who use inviting gestures, promoting positive social interactions.

Literature

  • In literature, beckoning often symbolizes an invitation to adventure or a new opportunity, as seen in classic tales like 'Alice in Wonderland'.
  • Characters who beckon often serve as catalysts for change, leading others into new experiences.
  • The act of beckoning can depict power dynamics; those who call others often hold influence over them.

Communication

  • Beckoning can transcend language barriers, making it a key form of communication in diverse settings.
  • In theater, actors are trained to use gestures, including beckoning, to convey emotions and intentions effectively.
  • In digital communication, the concept can be mirrored through actions like clicking to 'invite' someone into an online conversation.

Origin of 'beckon'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from Old English 'beccan', meaning to 'make a gesture' or to 'signal'.
  • In Middle English, it evolved to 'bekken', retaining the idea of beckoning someone with a motion.
  • The usage has remained largely unchanged for centuries, showing its importance in human interaction.

The word 'beckon' originated from Middle English 'bekeonen', which comes from Old English 'bฤ“cnan', meaning 'to make a mute gesture'. The gesture of beckoning has been used for centuries as a non-verbal way to communicate and invite others. It is a universal form of communication that transcends language barriers.

See also: beck.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,422, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.