plural gestures
1
: a movement of your body (especially of your hands and arms) that shows or emphasizes an idea or a feeling
Specific gestures can indicate particular moods.
an obscene gesture
His arm was raised in a gesture of defiance.
2
: something said or done to show a particular feeling or attitude
a thoughtful/polite/friendly gesture
a gesture of goodwill
The president's visit was mainly a symbolic gesture. [=an act that has no purpose or effect other than to show support, respect, etc.]
gestures; gestured; gesturing
: to make a gesture : to move your hands, arms, etc., to express an idea or feeling
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) that it was time to leave.
He gestured to/for his partner to leave.
Cite this Entry
“Gesture.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/gesture. Accessed 14 Apr. 2026.
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