gesture

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   something done as an indication of intention

   a political gesture

2. 2
   verb

   show, express or direct through movement

   They gestured their desire to leave.

3. 3
   noun

   A motion of the limbs or body, especially one made to emphasize speech.

   The middle-finger gesture is really a nonverbal swear.

4. 4
   noun

   An act or a remark that serves as a formality or as a sign of attitude.

   We took flowers as a gesture of sympathy.

5. 5
   noun

   A motion made with a pointing device, or on a touchscreen, that is recognised by the system as a command.

   This Web browser can be controlled with mouse gestures.

6. 6
   noun

   The manner of carrying the body; position of the body or limbs; posture.

   Accubation, or lying down at meals, was a gesture used by very many nations.

7. 7
   verb

   To make a gesture or gestures.

   My dad told me never to gesture with my hands when I talk.

8. 8
   verb

   To express (something) by a gesture or gestures.

   He gestured his disgust.

Etymology

From Medieval Latin gestūra (“a mode of action”), from Latin gerō (“to bear; (reflexive) bear oneself, behave, act”), past participle gestus.