Thesaurus results for GESTURE

gesture 1 of 2

noun

ˈjes-chər

as in sign

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 & Similar Words

Relevance

as in courtesy

an act or utterance that is a customary show of good manners sent a handwritten thank-you note as a gesture of his gratitude

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gesture

2 of 2

verb

as in to motion

to direct or notify by a movement or gesture the police officer gestured me to the side of the road to tell me my headlight was out

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Example Sentences

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.

Recent Examples of gesture

Noun

Recently shown off by Leviathan Engineering, the project brings Rocky—the smart, spider-like alien from the book—to life with moving limbs, speech recognition, and gestures that look just like the character fans remember. —

Sujita Sinha, Interesting Engineering, 8 May 2026 Ultimately, the best celebration isn’t found in a grand gesture, but in an enduring tradition of conflict-free stability. —

Rebecca L. Palmer, The Orlando Sentinel, 8 May 2026

Verb

Virtually every modern presidency has understood this, leaning into discretion and gesturing toward transparency even as new security measures have been unfurled over time. —

Neil Flanagan, The Atlantic, 2 May 2026 Though Washington is revered today, his position was extremely fragile at the time, Kesten said, gesturing at an image of a painting of von Steuben and Washington. —

Amanda Rosa updated April 28, Miami Herald, 28 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for gesture

Recent Examples of Synonyms for gesture

Noun

Santiago said the detentions are a sign that their fight for justice and to protect the surrounding lands was worth it despite the bloody toll.

— Marlon González, Los Angeles Times, 13 May 2026
New evidence in a study by researchers at Florida Atlantic University and the University of Central Florida found that changes in driving behavior can act as biomarkers indicating a decline in mental clarity that pre-dates major signs of dementia.

— Cindy Krischer Goodman, Miami Herald, 12 May 2026