# nonverbal

/nɑnˈvɝbəɫ/ (US) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/nonverbal
Updated: 2026-10-14

## Definition

not using words to share meaning. You use it for gestures, looks, and body language that show how you feel.

For teachers: involving communication without spoken or written words, such as gestures, facial expressions, posture, and tone of voice. Often describes cues that support, replace, or contradict speech.

## Examples

- She reads his nonverbal cues very well.
- During the interview he stays calm and uses steady eye contact and other nonverbal signals to show confidence.
- The therapist notes the child's nonverbal responses — averted gaze, folded arms, long pauses — as telling indicators of anxiety that words alone do not reveal.

## Synonyms

wordless

## Antonyms

verbal

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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.