Meaning & use

gesture

noun·Everyday

A movement of the hand, arm, or body that expresses an idea or feeling.

See it in a sentence

He made a welcoming gesture, waving his guests toward the empty seats.

Sending flowers was a kind gesture after her difficult week at work.

A note on using this word

"Gesture" can also describe a symbolic act of kindness or goodwill, not just a physical movement.

Words with a similar meaning

Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.

Another way to use it

2. verb

To make a movement of the hand or body to communicate something.

She gestured toward the door, signaling that it was time to leave.

Make it your own

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