gesture
n. countablen. a movement you make with your hands, arms, or head to express a feeling or idea. It can also be an action you take to show someone how you feel.
n. a physical movement of the limbs or body used to convey meaning or emphasis. It may also refer to a symbolic act performed to express a particular sentiment or intention.
He made a friendly gesture with his hand.
Sending flowers to the hospital was a kind gesture that showed she was thinking of her friend.
The diplomat's refusal to shake hands was seen as a hostile gesture that signaled the breakdown of the peace negotiations.
From Medieval Latin gestūra (“a mode of action”), from Latin gerō (“to bear; (reflexive) bear oneself, behave, act”), past participle gestus.
Often used with the verbs 'make' or 'perform' for physical movements, and 'be' or 'stand as' for symbolic actions.