gestures

word · lemma: gesture

/ˈdʒɛstʃɝz/
/dʒˈɛstʃəz/

Definition

Movements of the hands, body, or face that express an idea or feeling without using words.

Usage & Nuances

'Gestures' is generally neutral and covers hand signals, body language, and facial expressions. Common collocations: 'hand gestures', 'facial gestures', 'making gestures'. Some gestures have different meanings in different cultures; be careful about context.

Example Sentences

She used her hands to make gestures during the presentation.

basic

Some gestures mean different things in different countries.

natural

Babies communicate with simple gestures before they speak.

basic

He pointed to the door with gestures to show us where to go.

basic

"Can you understand his gestures?" she whispered, confused.

natural

He talks a lot with his hands and uses big gestures when excited.

natural