I. ˈjes-chər, ˈjesh- noun
Etymology: Middle English, from Anglo-French, from Medieval Latin gestura mode of action, from Latin gestus, past participle of gerere
Date: 15th century
1. archaic : carriage , bearing
2. : a movement usually of the body or limbs that expresses or emphasizes an idea, sentiment, or attitude
3. : the use of motions of the limbs or body as a means of expression
4. : something said or done by way of formality or courtesy, as a symbol or token, or for its effect on the attitudes of others
a political gesture to draw popular support — V. L. Parrington
II. verb
( ges·tured ; ges·tur·ing )
Date: 1542
intransitive verb
: to make a gesture
transitive verb
: to express or direct by a gesture