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gesticulate

verb

/dʒɛˈstɪkjʊleɪt/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of gesticulate

To use gestures, particularly of the hands and arms, to express oneself or to emphasize a point when speaking.
"The mime would gesticulate a story without uttering a single word."

Detailed meaning of gesticulate

Gesticulation is the act of making gestures. It is a way to express oneself nonverbally, by using body language, such as pointing, waving, or nodding.
Gesticulation can be used to express emotions, to emphasize a point, or to convey an idea.

Gesticulation can be used in different contexts, such as in public speaking, in acting, or in everyday conversations. Public speakers often use gesticulation to add emphasis to their words and to make their message more engaging and dynamic. Actors use gesticulation to help convey their character's emotions and feelings. In everyday conversations, gesticulation can be used to convey emphasis, agreement or disagreement, or to indicate directions or locations.

Gesticulation is often seen as a positive trait, as it can make a person's message more engaging and expressive, and can make a person appear more confident, passionate and convincing. However, excessive gesticulation can be seen as a sign of nervousness, or lack of self-control and can be a distraction to the listener.

Example sentences containing gesticulate

1. She gesticulated as she spoke, making her point more effectively.
2. He would gesticulate when trying to make his point clear.
3. She would gesticulate wildly during her passionate speeches, stirring up the audience.
4. He started to gesticulate in frustration when the taxi driver couldn't understand his directions.
5. As we wandered the narrow Italian streets, locals would gesticulate to each other from their balconies.
6. As the argument grew heated, they began to gesticulate more emphatically.

History and etymology of gesticulate

The verb 'gesticulate' finds its etymology in the Latin word 'gesticulatus,' which is the past participle of 'gesticulari.' This Latin term is derived from 'gestus,' meaning 'a gesture' or 'a motion of the body.' The etymology of 'gesticulate' reflects its meaning, as it pertains to the use of gestures, particularly those involving the hands and arms, to express oneself or emphasize a point when speaking. The Latin roots highlight the significance of nonverbal communication through bodily movements and actions, underscoring the role of gestures in enhancing spoken language and conveying emotions or ideas.

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Further usage examples of gesticulate

1. The conductor needs to gesticulate in time with the music, guiding the orchestra through the symphony.
2. She tends to gesticulate when she's excited about something.
3. He likes to gesticulate while telling his hilarious anecdotes, making them even more entertaining.
4. His attempt to gesticulate his apology was not well-received.
5. When words fail, I usually gesticulate to get my point across.
6. As she grew more animated in her story, she began to gesticulate wildly.
7. She would often gesticulate to emphasize her point during meetings.
8. The tour guide would frequently gesticulate to draw attention to specific landmarks.
9. She started to gesticulate her displeasure, but stopped herself midway.
10. During the performance, the actors would gesticulate dramatically to convey their characters' emotions.
11. I tend to gesticulate a lot when I'm nervous during public speaking.
12. He would often gesticulate with his hands while explaining his scientific theories.
13. The politician began to gesticulate to the crowd, urging them to understand his perspective.
14. As the discussion became more passionate, the speaker began to gesticulate wildly, underscoring his fervor.