Langimage
English

gesture

|ges-ture|

B1

🇺🇸

/ˈdʒɛstʃər/

🇬🇧

/ˈdʒɛstʃə/

expressive movement

Etymology
Etymology Information

'gesture' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'gestus,' where 'gest-' meant 'to bear or carry.'

Historical Evolution

'gestus' transformed into the Old French word 'gestre,' and eventually became the modern English word 'gesture' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to bear or carry,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a movement to express an idea.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a movement of part of the body, especially a hand or the head, to express an idea or meaning.

She made a gesture to indicate that she was leaving.

Synonyms

Verb 1

to make a gesture or gestures.

He gestured towards the door.

Synonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35