Word
nodding
Phoneticsnod·ding, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈnɑdɪŋ/
UK/nˈɒdɪŋ/
Definition
v. moving your head up and down to say yes or to show you agree with someone. It can also mean your head is dropping because you are starting to fall asleep.
v. the present participle of 'nod'; refers to the act of lowering and raising the head slightly and briefly. Often indicates agreement, acknowledgement, or the onset of sleep.
Examples
“She is nodding to show she understands the plan.”
“The audience members were nodding in agreement as the speaker explained the benefits of the new community park.”
“The student sat in the back of the lecture hall, his head nodding rhythmically as he struggled to stay awake during the long afternoon session.”
Examples
simple
“She is nodding to show she understands the plan.”
contextual
“The audience members were nodding in agreement as the speaker explained the benefits of the new community park.”
complex
“The student sat in the back of the lecture hall, his head nodding rhythmically as he struggled to stay awake during the long afternoon session.”
Usage
Often used with the preposition 'at' or 'to' when directed toward a person.
Pitfall
He is noding his head.
He is nodding his head.
The final 'd' must be doubled when adding '-ing' to the verb 'nod'.
Idioms
Domain
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.A2 KeyIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.3.0–4.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 2.0–2.524–43TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.225–549
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- A2 · Elementary
- Updated
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