Main Entry:

¹ges·ture

Pronunciation:

\ˈjes-chər, ˈjesh-\

Function:

noun

Etymology:

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

Date:

15th century

1archaic : carriage, bearing2: a movement usually of the body or limbs that expresses or emphasizes an idea, sentiment, or attitude3: the use of motions of the limbs or body as a means of expression4: something said or done by way of formality or courtesy, as a symbol or token, or for its effect on the attitudes of others <a political gesture to draw popular support — V. L. Parrington>