B2noun10K+

Gesture

UK /["/ˈdʒestʃə(r)/"]/US /["/ˈdʒestʃər/"]/

Definition

a movement that you make with your hands, your head or your face to show a particular meaning

In simple words: A movement of the body, especially the hands, to express something.

Examples

  • She made a friendly gesture by waving hello to the new neighbors.
  • His gesture of giving flowers showed his appreciation.
  • The politician's gesture of lifting the child was praised in the media.
  • A thumbs-up is a common gesture indicating approval.
  • She used sign language gestures to communicate with the deaf audience.
  • Turning off the TV was just a gesture since the remote was broken.

Usage notes

Used in everyday conversation to describe actions that show feelings or intentions. Suitable for both written and spoken English. Avoid in very formal documents.

Grammar pattern

gesture + object

Memory hint

Think of 'just a gesture' as a friendly wave or sign.

Collocations

  • dramatic
  • expansive
  • expressive
  • make
  • by gesture
  • in a gesture
  • with a gesture
  • kind
  • nice
  • sweet
  • as a gesture
  • in a gesture
  • gesture against

Synonyms

  • motion
  • signal
  • sign
  • action

Antonyms

  • inaction
  • stillness

Common mistakes

  • Confusing with 'jesture', which is incorrect.
  • Using it as a noun in places where a verb form is needed.