Hand movements that accompany speech and paint the shape, size or rhythm of what is being said.
A storyteller carves the height of a wave in the air while describing a journey by sea. The hands sketch the scene as the words unfold, giving the account a vivid physical shape.
Rich illustrating gestures often signal engagement, enthusiasm and genuine involvement with the topic. A sudden drop in these gestures can mark the moment a speaker loses conviction or interest.
The frequency of these gestures varies by culture and personality, so compare against the usual style of the speaker. Some cultures gesture freely while others keep the hands still, and neither is more sincere.
Gestures with a fixed meaning that can stand in for words, such as a thumbs up or a beckoning hand.
ExploreSmall self-touching movements such as rubbing the hands or stroking the arm that help to soothe nerves.
ExplorePressing the fingertips of both hands together to form a shape like the roof of a building.
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