gesture
UK/'dʒestʃə/US/'dʒestʃә/
NGSL 3kIELTSGREB1
Definitions
n.
A movement of the hands, head, or body to express an idea or feeling
手势，姿势，动作
n.
An act done to show one's intentions or feelings, often symbolically
（表明态度的）姿态，表示
v.
To make a movement, especially with the hands, to convey something
做手势，用动作示意
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedgest (carry, bear) + -ure (act, manner) = a 'manner of carrying oneself.' Originally how you held and moved your body; it narrowed to the deliberate movements that carry meaning to others. The same logic gives the figurative sense: a 'gesture of goodwill' is a symbolic act that carries your intention across without words.
Root gest still carries 36 more wordsCommon Collocations
- 1.make a gesture做个手势
- 2.friendly gesture友好的手势
- 3.gesture of goodwill善意的姿态
- 4.symbolic gesture象征性的姿态
Example Sentences
- 1.
He made a rude gesture at the other driver.
- 2.
Sending flowers was a kind gesture after the argument.
- 3.
She gestured toward the empty chair, inviting me to sit.