nod
NOD
/nɒd/
To lower and raise one's head slightly and briefly, especially in agreement, acknowledgment, or as a greeting.
A positive, affirming gesture that can also indicate understanding or a silent greeting.
The story behind the word. Dating back to Middle English 'nodden', the word's origin is somewhat mysterious but is believed to be related to Middle High German words for shaking or moving. It has served as the universal physical 'yes' in Western cultures for centuries.
Word relationships
- incline: Incline is a formal term for bending the head or body forward, whereas nod is a specific, quick up-and-down movement.
- shake: Shaking the head from side to side indicates disagreement or denial, while nodding indicates agreement.
Commonly confused with
- bob: Bob refers to a quick, repetitive up-and-down movement (often of the whole body), while nod is a single, purposeful head movement.
Word family
- nodder (noun): A person who nods.
Collocations
- nod of approval
- nod in agreement
- silent nod
Idioms & expressions
- get the nod (to be chosen or approved)
- nod off (to fall asleep)
Example sentences
- "Without saying a word, the manager gave a slow nod of approval to let the team know they could proceed." Agreeing silently in a meeting.
Memory hook
Nod is Okay and Done. The silent 'yes'.
When not to use
Do not use if the head is moving from side to side, which is a shake.
Fun facts
- While nodding means 'yes' in most cultures, in Bulgaria and parts of Greece, a nod actually means 'no', and a shake of the head means 'yes'.
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