le geste

Meaning (in English)

Geste means a gesture: a movement of the body—often of the hand, head, or face—used to express an idea, emotion, or intention.

It can also mean a symbolic act or action that shows an attitude (kindness, refusal, respect, etc.), even when it is not a physical movement.

Main meanings

1. Physical gesture (movement)

   • A hand motion, nod, wave, shrug, etc., used to communicate.
   • Example sense: faire un geste = to make a gesture.

2. Figurative / symbolic act

   • An action done to show goodwill, support, apology, generosity, etc.
   • Example sense: un geste commercial = a commercial goodwill gesture (e.g., refund, discount).

Parts / structure

• geste is a single-word noun (not a compound).
• Related expressions:
  • faire un geste: to make a gesture / to make an effort, do a small favor (depending on context)
  • un beau geste: a nice/kind act
  • un geste de solidarité: an act of solidarity

French synonyms

• For the movement sense: mouvement, signe (often “sign”), signal (in some contexts)
• For the symbolic act sense: acte, action, initiative, démarche (often a step/initiative), preuve (as in “proof/show of…”)

French antonyms (when applicable)

There isn’t one direct antonym, but depending on meaning:

• Opposite of making a gesture / taking action: inaction, immobilité, passivité
• Opposite of a kind gesture: méchanceté, hostilité, indifférence