hand signal

American  

[hand sig-nl] / ˈhænd ˌsɪg 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.

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Etymology

Origin of hand signal

First recorded in 1835–45

Example Sentences

The first was against linebacker Oluwafemi Oladejo for flashing the team’s fourth-down hand signal toward the Nebraska sideline, which was considered taunting.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 5, 2024

In a short video posted on X, Lissu was seen along with other party members flashing a V-for-victory hand signal, which is regularly used by CHADEMA.

From Reuters • Sep. 11, 2023

Jones’ citation of Mr. Guessford for failing to issue a proper right-turn hand signal was dismissed on June 29, 2022.

From Washington Times • Sep. 5, 2023

Those plays can typically be communicated with just one word or one hand signal, and a no-huddle offense tends to simplify how defenses play.

From Washington Post • Jan. 14, 2022

He makes a hand signal for the turn, which he takes inch by squeaking inch, Roli-style.

From "Merci Suárez Changes Gears" by Meg Medina