What does gesturing mean?
Gesturing means using movements of the hands, arms, or body to communicate, signal, or accompany speech. It is common in descriptions of conversation, teaching, public speaking, and situations in which people try to make a point without or alongside words. The word is generally neutral, although the related term “gesticulating” can suggest unusually rapid, elaborate, or emphatic movement. “Gesturing” can describe a continuing action, as in “she kept gesturing,” or function as a gerund noun, as in “his gesturing annoyed the audience.” It is also used for movements made to attract attention or communicate a direction. Although speech is often the main means of communication in such contexts, gesturing can be especially noticeable when it becomes expressive, repetitive, or culturally distinctive.
To communicate or express something through deliberate movements, especially of the hands or arms, often while speaking.
"She gestured toward the door as she finished speaking."
The -ing form can also function as a present participle before a noun, as in “the gesturing speaker.”
The act or manner of making gestures, especially as a means of communication or accompaniment to speech.
"His nervous gesturing revealed his discomfort."
This gerund noun is normally used uncountably; a plural form is uncommon.
Rare and usually avoided; as a gerund noun, “gesturing” is generally uncountable.
"The actor's broad gesturings filled the empty stage."
The word ultimately comes from a Latin term meaning “deed” or “action,” so gesturing began as a description of purposeful bodily movement.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does gesturing come from?
“Gesturing” is derived from “gesture,” which entered English from Latin “gestus,” meaning a deed, action, or manner of carrying oneself. Latin “gestus” is related to “gerere,” meaning to carry out, perform, or do. The modern -ing form appeared through the ordinary English process of forming a present participle and gerund from “gesture.”
Related word forms
How gesturing is actually used
“Gesturing” is the present participle and gerund form of “gesture.” It is neutral in register, though “gesticulating” can suggest movements that are more animated, elaborate, or expressive. As a gerund noun, it is generally uncountable.