kinesics

[ ki-nee-siks, -ziks, kahy- ]

noun

, (used with a singular verb)

1. the study of body movements, gestures, facial expressions, etc., as a means of communication.

kinesics

/ kɪˈniːsɪks /

noun

1. functioning as singular the study of the role of body movements, such as winking, shrugging, etc, in communication

Other Words From

• ki·nesic adjective
• ki·nesi·cal·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of kinesics¹

1950–55; < Greek kī́nēs ( is ) ( kinesis ) + -ics

Example Sentences

But this week we get a bit more, starting with Isaac’s delightful disquisition on the study of kinesics that enables him to instantly interpret what has happened.

From New York Times

So says Anthropologist Ray Birdwhistell, a pioneer in the study of kinesics, as body language is called.

From Time Magazine Archive

The University of Buffalo's Birdwhistell calls his specialty "kinesics," the study of body motions as a form of communication.

From Time Magazine Archive

Related Words

• action
• body language
• expression
• indication
• nod
• reminder
• salute
• sign
• signal
• token