hand signal

[ hand sig-nl ]

noun

1. any gesture, usually prearranged, made with the hand in order to convey a message:

   They communicated only with hand signals in order to maintain complete silence as they stalked the enemy.

   There are many ways of indicating whose turn it is to speak, including the use of a hand signal by the leader, or a feather passed around the group.

2. a conventional sign or motion made with the hand or arm, especially one of a set of such motions used by cyclists and drivers to indicate they are stopping, slowing, or turning left or right:

   Using the correct hand signal will help other cyclists, drivers, and pedestrians know what you will be doing next.

   If your vehicle’s turn signals are not working, use hand signals.

Word History and Origins

Origin of hand signal¹

First recorded in 1835–45

Example Sentences

Unnoticed by others, Darrin had given a hand signal to a petty officer in the bow of the launch.

From Project Gutenberg

Helmeted archers moved in on Simon from all sides, but Simon saw the doge give an abrupt hand signal to their capitano.

From Project Gutenberg