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

A man in Tennessee was charged with aggravated kidnapping and aggravated domestic assault in 2022 after his ex-girlfriend used the hand signal to tip off gas station staff that she needed help.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

He was not able to speak yet but was giving hand signals and writing down his thoughts.

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Douglas said Mr. Guessford was pulled over for an improper hand signal, according to Mr. Guessford’s complaint filed in the court.

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With a hand signal from a trainer, Delta and Reese were off.

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Prosecutors say Mr. Kinnison attached a photo to the Telegram message of the three men flashing a Three Percenter hand signal.

Read more on New York Times