Part of Speech

Verb

Pronunciation

/dʒɛˈstɪkjʊˌleɪt/

Definitions

• To make gestures, especially with the hands, while speaking, often to emphasize or illustrate one's words.
• To use gestures as a substitute for or in addition to verbal communication.
• To move one's body or limbs to communicate a message or feeling without words.

Usage Examples

• He tended to gesticulate wildly when explaining his ideas, making his points clearer through his expressive movements.
• She gesticulated with her hands to show how big the fish was, emphasizing the size with large sweeping motions.
• During the heated debate, they both gesticulated forcefully to make their arguments more persuasive.

Etymology

The verb "gesticulate" derives from the Latin "gesticulatus," meaning to gesture or make signs, from the word "gestus," meaning a gesture or motion. The word was first recorded in English in the early 17th century.

Synonyms

• Gesture
• Signal
• Indicate
• Motion
• Wave

Antonyms

• Be still
• Remain silent
• Be quiet
• Stand still
• Stay motionless

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The pronunciation of "gesticulate" may vary based on accent. For example, in American English, the stress may be more on the second syllable, while in British English, it's often stressed on the third syllable.

Historical Usage

Historically, "gesticulate" was used in early rhetoric to refer to the use of gestures in oratory. The term became more widespread in the 18th and 19th centuries as the importance of body language and gestures in public speaking and drama grew.

Cultural Nuances

In some cultures, gesticulating while speaking is a common and acceptable form of communication, such as in Mediterranean and Latin cultures. In other cultures, however, excessive gesticulation may be seen as impolite or unprofessional. Understanding cultural differences in gesturing can be crucial for effective communication in international contexts.

More Information

Gesticulate is used not only in everyday conversation but also in the fields of psychology and communication. It is often associated with non-verbal communication and can indicate a speaker’s emotional state, emphasis, or the urgency of their message. In theatrical arts, gesticulation is a vital tool for conveying characters' emotions and intentions to the audience. The study of gestures is an important area in the field of kinesics, the study of body motion in communication.