Gesturing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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gesturing
[ˈdʒɛs.tʃər.ɪŋ ]
Definitions
communication
Making gestures to express an idea or meaning, especially while speaking. Gesturing can include movements of the hands, arms, or body to convey emotions or emphasize a point.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| gesturing |
Used when referring to any movement of the hands or body to communicate something non-verbally, usually in a conversational or expressive context.
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| signal |
Best used in contexts where you need to convey a specific message or alert someone using a gesture, often implying a more formal or urgent communication.
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| indicate |
Appropriate in situations where you want to show or point out something clearly using gestures, often in an instructive or informative context.
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| motion |
Used when referring to making a movement, often with your hands or head, to communicate an instruction or direction, usually in a subtle or gentle manner.
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Examples of usage
- He gestured wildly as he recounted the story.
- She gestured towards the exit to indicate where we should go.
- The speaker gestured with his hands to emphasize the importance of his message.
body language
A movement of part of the body, especially a hand or the head, to express an idea or meaning. Gestures can be used consciously or unconsciously to communicate nonverbally.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| gesturing |
This word is appropriate when describing the action of making gestures, especially to communicate or emphasize something. It can be used in both casual and formal situations.
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| movement |
Use this word to describe any physical motion or change in position. It is a general term and can be used in various contexts, including describing the motion of objects or people.
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| sign |
This word is best used when referring to an indication or symbol that conveys information. It is often used in contexts that involve communication, warnings, or instructions.
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| signal |
Use 'signal' when you need to describe an action or gesture that is meant to communicate or trigger a specific response. It is often used in technical, military, or communication contexts.
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Examples of usage
- Her gestures were so expressive that she didn't need to say a word.
- The gesture of raising a hand can indicate a desire to speak.
- He made a dismissive gesture to show his lack of interest.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, specific gestures can have completely different meanings; for instance, a thumbs-up signifies approval in some places but can be offensive in others.
- Gestures play a crucial role in sign languages, allowing deaf individuals to communicate fully and expressively.
- Certain gestures, like bowing in Japan, are not just for greeting but carry deep meanings of respect and social status.
Psychology
- Research has shown that people who gesture while speaking tend to communicate more effectively and remember information better.
- Studies suggest that gestures can enhance cognitive processes, making it easier for individuals to express and organize their thoughts.
- Body language, including gestures, accounts for a large percentage of interpersonal communication, often conveying more than spoken words.
Pop Culture
- In movies and television, characters that use expressive gestures often convey emotions more powerfully than those who simply speak.
- Famous entertainers, such as dancers and singers, effectively use gestures to enhance their performance and engage audiences.
- Popular reality TV shows often showcase contestants using dramatic gestures to express their feelings and opinions, making the content more entertaining.
Communication Studies
- Gestural communication has been observed in various animal species, indicating that non-verbal cues are not unique to humans.
- Researchers in communication have identified various types of gestures, including emblematic gestures that have specific meanings and illustrative gestures that accompany speech.
- Effective communication often combines verbal and non-verbal elements, making gestures a vital part of conveying messages clearly.
Origin of 'gesturing'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'gesture' comes from the Latin 'gestura', meaning 'to carry or bear', which reflects the physical act of movement.
- Originally, gestures were used in ancient times as non-verbal communication among people without a shared language.
- By the 19th century, the concept of gesturing became increasingly studied in the context of social interaction and psychology.
The word 'gesturing' is derived from the Middle English word 'gesturen', which comes from the Old French 'geste' meaning 'action or exploit'. The use of gestures as a form of communication dates back to ancient times, with various cultures using hand signals and body movements to convey messages. Gesturing plays a significant role in nonverbal communication and is a universal aspect of human interaction.