Nod

Definition

Nod primarily signifies the act of lowering and raising one's head slightly and briefly, especially in greeting, assent, or drowsiness.

Parts of Speech

• Verb
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /nɑd/
• Respelling: NOD (with "NOD" as in "nod")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /nɒd/
• Respelling: NOD (similar to American English, with "NOD" as in "nod")

In both dialects, "nod" is pronounced with a single, stressed syllable. The pronunciation remains consistent across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of the "NOD" sound.

Etymology

Derived from the Old English "cnodan", the word "nod" has been in usage since before the 12th century. The term is possibly of Germanic origin.

Derivatives

• Nodder
• Nodding
• Noddingly
• Noddy (referring to a person's head)
• Nodal

Synonyms

• Gesture
• Signal
• Beckon

Antonyms

• Shake
• Decline
• Refuse

Usage

The term "nod" is commonly used to indicate agreement, understanding, or acknowledgment without the need for verbal communication.

• Sarah gave a quick nod to show she understood the instructions.
• The sleepy student began to nod off during the lecture.
• A nod of approval was all that was needed to proceed.

Related Terms

• Wink
• Wave
• Bow

Detailed Definition

Verb

• Lower and Raise Head: To lower and raise the head quickly, as in agreement or acknowledgment.‍
• Example: I asked if he was ready, and he nodded in agreement.

• Signal or Direct: To signal or direct by nodding.‍
• Example: She nodded me towards the back of the room.

• Decline or Drop: To let the head fall forward when drowsy.‍
• Example: He was so tired that he began to nod at his desk.

Noun

• Act of Nodding: An act of nodding the head, especially as a gesture.‍
• Example: He greeted me with a friendly nod.

• Signal or Sign: A sign or indication of something.‍
• Example: That antique vase was a nod to her grandmother's era.