body language

noun

: the gestures, movements, and mannerisms by which a person or animal communicates with others

Examples of body language in a Sentence

We could tell from his body language that he was nervous.

Recent Examples on the Web

Allow your dog to set the pace, paying attention to their body language to measure their comfort with new experiences. — Madeline Gunderson, USA Today, 29 July 2026

Budson explained that reading facial expressions, body language and tone of voice strengthens connections between brain cells and helps build new ones. — Lauren Schuster, Miami Herald, 29 July 2026

Consider your colleague’s tone and body language to gauge their feelings. — Julia Korn, Forbes.com, 27 July 2026

Why all the sneering and haughty body language from the front stoop of a cinderblock double-wide? — Lo Patrick, PEOPLE, 14 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1885, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for body language

• interlanguage
• metalanguage

Kids Definition

body language

noun

: movements (as with the hands) or posture used as a means of expression