beckon

beck·on

verb \ˈbe-k^ən\

beck·onedbeck·on·ing

Definition of BECKON

intransitive verb

1

: to summon or signal typically with a wave or nod

2

: to appear inviting : attract <the frontier beckons>

transitive verb

: to beckon to

— beckon noun

Examples of BECKON

1. She was beckoning them in to shore.
2. She beckoned the waiter to come over.
3. She beckoned to the waiter to come over.
4. From the time he was a child, the wilderness beckoned to him.
5. The nature preserve beckons bird-watchers, who visit from around the world.

Origin of BECKON

Middle English beknen, from Old English bīecnan, from bēacen sign — more at beacon

First Known Use: before 12th century

Related to BECKON

Synonyms: motion, flag, gesture, signal, wave

Related Words: nod; gesticulate, mime, pantomime, sign; signalize; acquaint, advise, inform, relate, tell; flourish, shrug

[+]more[-]hide

Rhymes with BECKON

Brecon, Deccan, reckon, zechin