I. ˈnäd verb
( nod·ded ; nod·ding )
Etymology: Middle English nodden; perhaps akin to Old High German hnotōn to shake
Date: 14th century
intransitive verb
1. : to make a quick downward motion of the head whether deliberately (as in expressing assent or salutation) or involuntarily (as from drowsiness)
2. : to incline or sway from the vertical as though ready to fall
3. : to bend or sway the upper part gently downward or forward : bob gently
4. : to make a slip or error in a moment of abstraction
transitive verb
1. : to incline (as the head) downward or forward
2. : to bring, invite, or send by a nod
nodded us in
3. : to signify by a nod
nodded their approval
• nod·der noun
II. noun
Date: circa 1541
1. : the act or an instance of nodding
gave a nod of greeting
2. : an indication especially of approval or recognition
received the party's nod as candidate for governor