Beckoned Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ‘‰
Add to dictionary

beckoned

[หˆbษ›kษ™nd ]

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.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

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.

Origin of 'beckoned'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'beckon' comes from Old English 'bรฆccan', 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.

The term 'beckon' traces its origins back to Middle English, derived from the word 'becken' which is related to the Old English 'beccan' meaning 'to beckon' or 'to call'. The root can be linked to various Germanic consonant shifts, reflecting a conceptual evolution over time. 'Beckon' has been in usage since the late 15th century, evolving through various forms while maintaining a consistent central meaning related to signaling a person with a gesture. The word's development reflects the transition from interactivity in communication, emphasizing non-verbal signaling in both personal and societal contexts. Its usage now encompasses a broad range of settings, from casual settings to more formal, ingrained into the fabric of communicative actions that transcend linguistic barriers.


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.