beckon

American  

[bek-uhn] / ˈbɛk ən /

verb (used with or without object)

1. to signal, summon, or direct by a gesture of the head or hand.

   Synonyms:

   nod, bid, gesture, wave, motion

2. to lure; entice.

   Synonyms:

   beguile, allure, tantalize, tempt, coax, draw, attract, invite

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noun

1. a nod, gesture, etc., that signals, directs, summons, indicates agreement, or the like.

beckon British  

/ ˈbɛkən /

verb

1. to summon with a gesture of the hand or head

2. to entice or lure

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noun

1. a summoning gesture

Other Word Forms

• beckoner noun
• beckoning adjective
• beckoningly adverb
• unbeckoned adjective

Etymology

Origin of beckon

before 950; Middle English beknen, Old English gebē ( a ) cnian, derivative of bēacen beacon

Example Sentences

It was several weeks later that Betsie opened the door from the hallway and beckoned to Father and me.

From Literature

After introducing Mr. Lew, she beckoned for Auntie Matchmaker to sit.

From Literature

Around us people begin to move, a swirling eddy of bodies rubbing our shoulders, beckoning us to join in.

From Literature

With her free hand, she beckons me closer.

From Literature

Open the door to the theater, and discover a place of urban enchantment, where a red velvet door and crimson wallpaper beckon guests to come closer and sit inside.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• attract
• entice
• invite
• tempt