beckoning
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈbɛkənɪŋ/
KK: /ˈbɛkənɪŋ/
adjective
Definition
This word describes something that is inviting or signaling someone to come closer or to follow.
Example
The beckoning gesture made her friend come over.
Comparatives & Superlatives
Comparative: more beckoning
Superlative: most beckoning
Conversation
Have you seen that new café downtown?
Yeah, the one with the beckoning sign?
Exactly! It really draws you in, doesn't it?
It does! I can't wait to check it out this weekend.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
inviting
summoning
enticing
Antonyms
repelling
dismissing
ignoring
noun
Definition
A gesture or signal that invites someone to come closer or to follow.
Example
She gave a beckoning wave to her friend across the street.
Conversation
Did you see her beckoning us over from across the street?
Yeah, I noticed! I wonder what she wants to talk about.
I guess we'll find out soon, her beckoning is pretty hard to ignore.
verb
Definition
To make a gesture with the hand or head to signal someone to come closer or to attract attention.
Example
She was beckoning him to join her at the table.
Tense Forms
Past: beckoned
Past Participle: beckoned
Conversation
Did you see that cat beckoning us to follow it?
Yeah, it looked like it wanted us to play with it!
I wonder where it was trying to lead us to.
Root Explanation
Beckoning → It is formed from "beckon" (from Old English "beacnian", meaning to signal or summon) and the suffix "-ing" (indicating the action or process). The word "beckoning" refers to the action of signaling or summoning someone, often with a gesture.
Memory Tip
Imagine someone using a gesture to 'signal' or 'summon' another person — that's what beckoning means.
Visually Confused Words
reckoning
becoming
beking