Vocabulary Spotlight

Beckon

Part of Speech: Verb

Definition: To make a gesture to encourage someone to come closer or follow.

“She beckoned him over to join the conversation.”

Pronunciation

[bek-uhn]

Synonyms, Antonyms & Related Words

Synonyms

Summon
Signal
Gesture
Invite
Wave

Antonyms

Dismiss
Ignore
Reject
Repel
Dismiss

Related Words

Gesture
Nod

Word Origin

“Beckon” originates from Old English “beconian,” which means “to make a mute sign, signal.” It is related to “beacon,” signaling a form of communication.

Word Family

Verb: Beckon – To make a gesture to signal someone.

Mnemonics

Imagine “beckoning” as waving “come on” to someone to draw them near.

Industry-specific Usage

Business

In business, a manager may beckon employees to join a meeting, indicating their importance through this nonverbal cue.

Social Interaction

Beckoning can serve as a polite or subtle way to gain someone’s attention without calling out.

Sports

A coach might beckon players off the field, using gestures to communicate without words.

In Context

Beckoning gestures are used across cultures as a way to invite or signal without speaking. They are often associated with subtle encouragement or discreet direction, commonly in social or work settings.

Vocabulary Challenges

1. What does it mean to “beckon” someone?

Ignore someone
Gesture for someone to come
Repel someone
Dismiss someone

“Gesture for someone to come” is correct, as beckoning involves inviting someone closer or signaling them.

2. Fill in the blank: The coach _______ the players to join him on the sidelines.

repelled
ignored
dismissed
beckoned

“Beckoned” is correct as it shows the coach signaling for attention.

3. When might someone use a beckoning gesture?

To discreetly call someone closer
To ignore a visitor
To signal disinterest
To express anger

“To discreetly call someone closer” is correct as beckoning is often a subtle invitation.