What does the term "gestures" refer to in communication?

The term "gestures" in communication specifically refers to the movements of a speaker's hands or arms. Gestures play a significant role in nonverbal communication, enhancing or clarifying the spoken message. They can indicate emphasis, illustrate points, or convey emotions without the use of words. For instance, waving a hand can indicate greeting or farewell, while pointing can direct attention to specific ideas or objects. Gestures help in making communication more engaging and can provide additional context to the spoken language.

In contrast, spoken words solely represent verbal communication and do not encompass the physical actions that gestures do. Visual aids are tools like slides or images that support a presentation but are not gestures themselves. Facial expressions, while critical in conveying emotions and reactions, are distinct from gestures, which primarily involve movement of the limbs. This distinction emphasizes the unique contribution of gestures to effective communication.