deictic

adjective

deic·​tic ˈdīk-tik How to pronounce deictic (audio)
 also  ˈdāk-
: showing or pointing out directly
the words this, that, and those have a deictic function

Examples of deictic in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Then there are deictic or indexical gestures, which can happen either with or without vocal speech. Popular Science Team, Popular Science, 19 June 2024 Some are meant to point out objects, known as deictic gestures, and others are for conveying messages, called symbolic gestures. Will Sullivan, Smithsonian Magazine, 26 Mar. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'deictic.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Greek deiktikos able to show, from deiktos, verbal of deiknynai to show — more at diction

First Known Use

1876, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of deictic was in 1876

Dictionary Entries Near deictic

Cite this Entry

“Deictic.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/deictic. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

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