Gestural Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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gestural
[หdสษstสษrษl ]
Definition
communication methods
Gestural refers to the use of movements, typically of the hands or arms, to convey information or express thoughts and feelings. It is often utilized in contexts where spoken language may be limited or ineffective, such as in silent communication or in cultures that place a high value on nonverbal cues. Gestural communication can be crucial for conveying emotions and intentions accurately, often supplementing verbal communication. It includes gestures, body language, and facial expressions, all of which can vary widely between different cultures.
Synonyms
nonverbal, physical, signaling.
Examples of usage
- She used gestural signs to communicate with the deaf community.
- His gestural expressions conveyed excitement more than his words did.
- Gestural cues can enhance storytelling and engage the audience.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Research shows that people often understand gestures faster than spoken words, especially in emotional contexts.
- In conversations, about 93% of communication can come from non-verbal cues like gestures, tone of voice, and body language.
Art
- In modern art, gestural painting emphasizes the artist's physical act of painting, where the movement itself contributes to the artwork's meaning.
- Artists like Jackson Pollock used gestural techniques to convey emotion and spontaneity, leading to the abstract expressionism movement.
Cultural Communication
- Different cultures use gestures in various ways; for example, a thumbs-up is considered positive in many places, while it can be offensive in others.
- In some societies, gestures can replace spoken language entirely, such as in sign languages, which are fully developed languages using hand symbols.
Education
- Teachers often incorporate gestural strategies in teaching to engage students, helping them remember information through movement.
- Studies suggest that using gestures while learning new concepts can enhance memory and comprehension in both children and adults.
Origin of 'gestural'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'gestural' comes from the Latin word 'gestura,' which means 'gesture or motion.'
- It entered the English language in the 19th century, reflecting the growing interest in body language and non-verbal communication.
The word 'gestural' derives from the Latin root 'gestus,' which means 'gesture' or 'deed.' This root relates to the act of carrying out or expressing something through movement. The adoption of 'gestural' into the English language occurred in the late 19th century, primarily to describe forms of communication that rely heavily on physical expressions. Over time, it has come to incorporate a broader context, influencing fields such as psychology, anthropology, and communication studies, where understanding nonverbal interaction is critical. With the rise of globalization and multicultural interaction, the recognition of gestural communication's importance has grown, emphasizing its role in both personal and professional contexts.