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

But for the most part, America has always been an optimistic nation, with the future beckoning a better day for everyone.

From Salon

He pulled himself along, faster and faster, careless of his bleeding hands and aching legs, toward the source of that icy wind and the glimmer of white that beckoned him.

From Literature

He never thought he’d see it again and it was here, in this library, bathed in the same golden light that had beckoned him.

From Literature

One day after class, Mr. Carbine beckoned him over.

From Literature

A brighter light beckoned a few meters away, down a steep bank that led to the shore.

From Literature

Related Words

• attract
• entice
• invite
• tempt