Beckoned: meaning, definitions and examples

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beckoned

 

[ˈbɛkənd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

signal someone

To beckon means to make a gesture with the hand, arm, or head to encourage someone to come closer or to follow. It can imply a silent invitation or request that may be more inviting than verbal communication.

Synonyms

called, motioned, signaled, summoned.

Examples of usage

  • She beckoned him to join her.
  • The waiter beckoned us to our table.
  • He beckoned the children closer to hear the story.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'beckon' comes from Old English 'bæccan', which means to make a gesture.
  • Related to the Middle Dutch word 'beckene', highlighting its long history in gesture-based communication.
  • The transformation of the term reflects how people have used gestures for centuries to communicate.

Psychology

  • Gestures like beckoning can create a sense of invitation or inclusion, influencing social interactions.
  • Research shows that non-verbal cues, such as beckoning, often convey emotions more effectively than words.
  • The act of beckoning taps into our instincts for connection and guidance, rooted in human behavior.

Literature

  • In classic literature, beckoning often symbolizes hope or longing, inviting characters to a new journey or adventure.
  • Beckoning can be found in poetry as a motif for desire or a call to follow one's dreams.
  • Writers use beckoning to illustrate pivotal moments where characters choose to connect or turn away.

Pop Culture

  • Beckoned gestures are frequently used in movies and television to signify secrets, conspiracies, or invitations.
  • In popular songs, beckoning might represent love and longing, often used during romantic moments.
  • Famous scenes in films often feature a character beckoning to convey urgency or temptation.

Cultural Practices

  • Different cultures have unique gestures for beckoning, such as the finger curl, which may mean different things in various regions.
  • In some cultures, beckoning is done with open palms, while in others it might be considered rude to gesture in a certain way.
  • Traditional dances around the world often include movements that beckon, representing a call to join or unite.

Translations

Translations of the word "beckoned" in other languages:

🇵🇹 chamou

🇮🇳 आकर्षित किया

🇩🇪 gewinkt

🇮🇩 menggoda

🇺🇦 покликав

🇵🇱 wezwał

🇯🇵 呼び寄せた

🇫🇷 a appelé

🇪🇸 llamó

🇹🇷 çağırdı

🇰🇷 손짓했다

🇸🇦 أشار

🇨🇿 přivolal

🇸🇰 povolal

🇨🇳 招手

🇸🇮 poklical

🇮🇸 kallaði

🇰🇿 шақырды

🇬🇪 დაასახელა

🇦🇿 səs saldı

🇲🇽 llamó

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,517, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.