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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Seeing the body language of his double-play partner, second baseman Isiah Kiner-Falefa hung back as well. Ken Rosenthal, New York Times, 17 Oct. 2025 What is most beautiful in a woman is the eye contact, the smile and the body language. Ramin Setoodeh, Variety, 16 Oct. 2025 Some researchers even suggest that the percentage of our communication that is nonverbal may be up to 90 percent — including tone, body language, facial expressions and more. Bill Connolly, Rolling Stone, 15 Oct. 2025 Clearly, the receiver is unhappy, and it has been shown through his body language and comments. James Brizuela, MSNBC Newsweek, 13 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for body language

Word History

First Known Use

1885, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of body language was in 1885

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Cite this Entry

“Body language.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/body%20language. Accessed 22 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

body language

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

More from Merriam-Webster on body language

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