kinesics

[ki-nee-siks, -ziks, kahy-]

noun

(used with a singular verb)

1. the study of body movements, gestures, facial expressions, etc., as a means of communication.

kinesics

/ kɪˈniːsɪks /

noun

1. (functioning as singular) the study of the role of body movements, such as winking, shrugging, etc, in communication

Other Word Forms

• kinesic adjective
• kinesically adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of kinesics¹

1950–55; < Greek kī́nēs ( is ) ( kinesis ) + -ics

Example Sentences

But this week we get a bit more, starting with Isaac’s delightful disquisition on the study of kinesics that enables him to instantly interpret what has happened.

Read more on New York Times

So says Anthropologist Ray Birdwhistell, a pioneer in the study of kinesics, as body language is called.

Read more on Time Magazine Archive

The University of Buffalo's Birdwhistell calls his specialty "kinesics," the study of body motions as a form of communication.

Read more on Time Magazine Archive

Related Words

• action 
• body language 
• expression 
• indication 
• nod 
• reminder 
• salute 
• sign 
• signal 
• token