beckon

[ bek-uhn ]

verb (used with or without object)

1. to signal, summon, or direct by a gesture of the head or hand.

   Synonyms: nod, bid, gesture, wave, motion

2. to lure; entice.

   Synonyms: beguile, allure, tantalize, tempt, coax, draw, attract, invite

noun

1. a nod, gesture, etc., that signals, directs, summons, indicates agreement, or the like.

beckon

/ ˈbɛkən /

verb

1. to summon with a gesture of the hand or head
2. to entice or lure

noun

1. a summoning gesture

Derived Forms

• ˈbeckoner, noun
• ˈbeckoning, adjectivenoun

Other Words From

• beckon·er noun
• beckon·ing·ly adverb
• un·beckoned adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of beckon¹

before 950; Middle English beknen, Old English gebē ( a ) cnian, derivative of bēacen beacon

Word History and Origins

Origin of beckon¹

Old English bīecnan , from bēacen sign; related to Old Saxon bōknian ; see beacon

Example Sentences

Afterward, with broadcast networks beckoning, McVay pondered taking a break from coaching.

From Los Angeles Times

Her head and body aim in opposite directions, as if she’s just heard her name beckoned from behind as she was passing by and is turning to look.

From Los Angeles Times

Cloaked Hillary Clinton beckons Harris to follow her into woods.

From Los Angeles Times

Once the Braga assignment is out of the way, England beckons.

From BBC

The pregnant pause that follows effortlessly beckons laughter.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• attract
• entice
• invite
• tempt