Definition of gesture
2 : a movement usually of the body or limbs that expresses or emphasizes an idea, sentiment, or attitude raised his hand overhead in a gesture of triumph
3 : the use of motions of the limbs or body as a means of expression
4 : 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
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Examples of gesture in a Sentence
Specific gestures can indicate particular moods.
His arm was raised in a gesture of defiance.
Origin and Etymology of gesture
Middle English, from Anglo-French, from Medieval Latin gestura mode of action, from Latin gestus, past participle of gerere
First Known Use: 15th century
gesture
Definition of gesture
gestured
;gesturing
Examples of gesture in a Sentence
She gestured towards the fireplace.
He gestured at his audience.
The room was filled with angry people shouting and gesturing.
He gestured to his partner to leave.
Origin and Etymology of gesture
see 1gesture
First Known Use: 1542
GESTURE Defined for English Language Learners
gesture
playDefinition of gesture for English Language Learners
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: a movement of your body (especially of your hands and arms) that shows or emphasizes an idea or a feeling
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: something said or done to show a particular feeling or attitude
gesture
Definition of gesture for English Language Learners
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: to make a gesture : to move your hands, arms, etc., to express an idea or feeling
GESTURE Defined for Kids
Definition of gesture for Students
1 : a movement of the body (as the hands and arms) that expresses an idea or a feeling … Tutok rose and made a gesture of farewell. — Scott O'Dell, Island of the Blue Dolphins
2 : something said or done that shows a particular feeling He invited her in a gesture of friendship.
Definition of gesture for Students
gestured
;gesturing
: to make or direct with a gesture I gestured for her to come.
Learn More about gesture
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See words that rhyme with gesture Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for gesture Spanish Central: Translation of gesture Nglish: Translation of gesture for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of gesture for Arabic speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about gesture
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