Walking on two feet and thus having free hands (fore limbs) gives us an unique ability to make different gestures. They are very advantageous during social interactions. There are different categories of under which different gestures fall. Only manipulative, pointing, declarative and territorial gestures are quite common cross the globe.
Symbolic and Emblematic gestures vary from one culture to another. Also, meaning of same gesture might have entirely different meaning in two cultures.
![]() |
Directing ("This way."), Pointing ("It's the thing.") or Blaming ("You are a culprit.") |
![]() |
Skyward/Upward, Ruler's Finger or "One God" |
![]() |
Allowing ("Come here.", "Let it approach.") |
![]() |
Stopping ("It's enough.", "Don't come.") |
![]() |
Blessing or Suppressing |
![]() |
Submission or "Give me." |
![]() |
Powerful, Strong or Winner |
![]() |
Questioning or Demanding |
![]() |
Offering or Picking |
![]() |
Clarification ("Believe me.", "Nothing to hind.") |
![]() |
Helping Hand or Making Clear |
![]() |
No Arms In Hand or Hand Wave ("I'm here.") |
![]() |
Symbolic Pistol or Sign of Shooting |
![]() |
Symbolic Punch ("Beat you") or Power Fist |
Related Articles: