Gesture — Meaning, Definition & Synonyms

noun verb /ˈjes-chər/ ges·ture

Meaning & Definition of Gesture

Gesture (noun)

  1. a movement usually of the body or limbs that expresses or emphasizes an idea, sentiment, or attitude
  2. the use of motions of the limbs or body as a means of expression
  3. something said or done by way of formality or courtesy, as a symbol or token, or for its effect on the attitudes of others

Gesture (verb)

  1. to make a gesture
  2. to express or direct by a gesture

Gesture (noun) — Senses, Synonyms & Antonyms

  1. a movement of the body or limbs that expresses or emphasizes an idea or feeling

    "a teenager who often shrugs her shoulders in a gesture of indifference"

    similar: gesticulation, mime, pantomime, sign, signal
    related: beck, beckon, flourish, shrug, wave, body language, posture, indication, motion, sign language

  2. an act or utterance that is a customary show of good manners

    "sent a handwritten thank-you note as a gesture of his gratitude"

    similar: amenity, attention, civility, courtesy, formality, pleasantry, politeness
    related: honors, ceremony, observance, rite, ritual, decorum, etiquette, form, manners, mores, proprieties, addresses, devoirs, greetings, regards, respects, favor, grace, kindliness, kindness, protocol, rules

Gesture (verb) — Senses, Synonyms & Antonyms

  1. to direct or notify by a movement or gesture

    "the police officer gestured me to the side of the road to tell me my headlight was out"

    similar: beckon, flag, motion, signal, wave
    related: nod, gesticulate, mime, pantomime, sign, signalize, acquaint, advise, inform, relate, tell, flourish, shrug

Synonyms, Thesaurus & Another Word for Gesture

The most common words with a similar meaning to Gesture:

gesticulation, mime, pantomime, sign, signal, amenity, attention, civility, courtesy, formality, pleasantry, politeness, beckon, flag, motion, wave

Related Words for Gesture

beck, flourish, shrug, body language, posture, indication, sign language, honors, ceremony, observance, rite, ritual, decorum, etiquette, form, manners, mores, proprieties, addresses, devoirs, greetings, regards, respects, favor, grace, kindliness, kindness, protocol, rules, nod

Word Forms of Gesture

Inflections: gestured, gesturing

Origin & Etymology of Gesture

Middle English, from Anglo-French, from Medieval Latin gestura mode of action, from Latin gestus, past participle of gerere

First known use: 15th century

Vocabulary Lists & Topics for Gesture

Words & Phrases Containing Gesture

gesture language, symbolic gesture

Frequently Asked Questions about Gesture

What does "Gesture" mean?

"Gesture" means a movement usually of the body or limbs that expresses or emphasizes an idea, sentiment, or attitude. As an a noun and a verb, it is defined as: a movement usually of the body or limbs that expresses or emphasizes an idea, sentiment, or attitude. It has 3 distinct senses.

What is another word for "Gesture"?

Other words for "Gesture" include gesticulation, mime, pantomime, sign, signal, amenity, attention and civility. The best synonym depends on which meaning of "Gesture" you intend.

What are different ways to say "Gesture"?

There are 53 words and phrases with a similar meaning to "Gesture". Common alternatives include gesticulation, mime, pantomime, sign, signal, amenity, attention, civility, courtesy and formality.

How do you use "Gesture" in a sentence?

Examples of "Gesture" in a sentence: "a teenager who often shrugs her shoulders in a gesture of indifference"; "sent a handwritten thank-you note as a gesture of his gratitude"; "the police officer gestured me to the side of the road to tell me my headlight was out".

Is "Gesture" a noun, verb, or adjective?

"Gesture" can be used as a noun and a verb, depending on the context.

Is "Gesture" useful for IELTS, TOEFL, and other English exams?

As a B2-level word, "Gesture" is typical of Cambridge B2 First (FCE), IELTS band 5.5–6.5, TOEFL iBT 72–94, PTE Academic 59–75, TOEIC Listening & Reading 785+.

How do you pronounce "Gesture"?

"Gesture" is pronounced /ˈjes-chər/ and divided into syllables as ges·ture.

What is the origin of the word "Gesture"?

"Gesture" comes from Middle English, from Anglo-French, from Medieval Latin gestura mode of action, from Latin gestus, past participle of gerere. First known use: 15th century.