Search Dictionary
Definition of gesture

gesture

/ˈdʒɛs.tʃər/
ges · ture
Adverb:gesturally
•
Plural:gestures
•
Adjective:gestural
•
Past Simple:gestured
•
Past Participle:gestured
•
Present Participle:gesturing
JUMP TO:

gesture Lexical Profile

gesture Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

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

Example

"The speaker used an emphatic hand gesture to underscore the importance of her proposal."

2

An action performed to convey one's feelings or intentions, or solely for diplomatic or symbolic effect.

Example

"Sending flowers to the new neighbors was a thoughtful gesture of goodwill."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for gesture

• verb

1

To make a movement with the hands, head, or body in order to express an idea, direct attention, or emphasize speech.

Example

"The tour guide gestured toward the ancient archway at the end of the courtyard."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for gesture

• Rhymes for gesture

• Nearby Words

gestational
gesticulate
gestural
gesture
gesundheit
get
getaway

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the 15th century from Medieval Latin 'gestura' (a mode of action, bearing, or posture), derived from Latin 'gerere', meaning 'to bear, carry, or perform'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Gesture. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/gesture
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.