nonverbal communication

British  

noun

1. psychol those aspects of communication, such as gestures and facial expressions, that do not involve verbal communication but which may include nonverbal aspects of speech itself (accent, tone of voice, speed of speaking, etc)

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nonverbal communication Cultural  

1. Communication without the use of spoken language. Nonverbal communication includes gestures, facial expressions, and body positions (known collectively as “body language”), as well as unspoken understandings and presuppositions, and cultural and environmental conditions that may affect any encounter between people.

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Example Sentences

The fourth edition, published in 1994, named additional behaviors: impaired relationships, struggles with nonverbal communication and speech patterns different from those of non-autistic, or neurotypical, peers.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 24, 2025

This might also include exploring other forms of minimal, nonverbal communication suited to non-humanoid robots, such as indicator lights or sounds, which can shape how trust is developed and maintained.

From Science Daily • Nov. 20, 2024

Children could have difficulty making friendships or imitating others; verbal or nonverbal communication delays; or restricted or repetitive interests, such as a preoccupation with specific topics.

From New York Times • Apr. 10, 2023

The scientists chose to use magic tricks because, of all the various art forms that could be utilized, magic entailed an ideal combination of interactivity and nonverbal communication.

From Salon • Apr. 6, 2023

This nonverbal communication of Tiamat's was starting to get out of hand!

From "Jeremy Thatcher, Dragon Hatcher" by Bruce Coville