gesture

gesture

noun

Definition of GESTURE

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>

Synonyms gesticulation, mime, pantomime, sign, signal

Related Words 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>

Synonyms amenity, attention, courtesy, formality, gesture, pleasantry, politeness

Related Words honors; ceremony, observance, rite, ritual; decorum, etiquette, form, manners, mores, proprieties; addresses, devoirs, greetings, regards, respects; favor, grace, kindliness, kindness; protocol, rules