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

Included in the slideshow they posted Thursday is what appears to be a sonogram image of a fetus in a womb, throwing a “rock on” hand signal.

From Los Angeles Times • May 14, 2026

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

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

From Washington Post • Jan. 12, 2023

The “OK” hand signal is no longer OK at the University of Nebraska.

From Washington Times • Jan. 30, 2022

Then he makes the hand signal they use in Firestride, the one that means you’re a part of the secret resistance group—that you’re a protector of the planet.

From "The Wrong Way Home" by Kate O’Shaughnessy