'gesticulate' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'gesticulatus,' where 'gesticulus' meant 'a gesture or mimicry.'

'gesticulatus' transformed into the French word 'gesticuler,' and eventually became the modern English word 'gesticulate' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to mimic or gesture,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to make gestures, especially when speaking.'