# nodding

/ˈnɑdɪŋ/ (US) · /nˈɒdɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR A2 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/nodding
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

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.

For teachers: 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.

## Pitfalls

- Not "He is noding his head." but "He is nodding his head." — The final 'd' must be doubled when adding '-ing' to the verb 'nod'.

## Usage notes

- Often used with the preposition 'at' or 'to' when directed toward a person.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.