νεύω
neúō
G3506 verb
SILEX Entry
Definition
To make a nonverbal gesture, especially by nodding the head, primarily to convey information or a signal without spoken words; can denote giving a sign, making a gesture to communicate understanding, direction, or agreement. In some contexts, refers more broadly to any form of discrete signaling.
Semantic Range
to nod, to give a nonverbal signal, to gesture, to indicate by movement (usually of the head), to beckon, to convey a command or agreement without words
Root / Etymology
The verb νεύω is built on the Greek root νευ-, related to the concept of movement or bending, especially as it applies to the head or body; no clear derivation from other words, likely primary in Greek.
Historical & Contextual Notes
In classical Greek, νεύω referred to making a motion or inclination, particularly as a means of nonverbal communication—typically by nodding the head. It could be used to indicate agreement, to give a nonverbal command, or to discreetly convey a message. In Koine Greek (including the Septuagint and New Testament), the verb retains this force: it typically means to give a nonverbal signal or cue, most often by nodding, but sometimes by other bodily gesture. Unlike some English translations ('beckon'), the Greek encompasses a wider array of signals that can be both discrete and direct. English versions sometimes translate νεύω as 'beckon', 'nod', or 'signal', but each may only capture part of its force. The term is less specific than 'wink' (συγνεύω) or 'sign with the hand' (ἐνδεικνύμι), and should be distinguished from more formal or miraculous 'signs' (σημεῖον). The practice of communicating through gestures like νέυω is attested throughout Hellenistic literature, indicating its commonality in ancient interaction. The verb's semantic range has remained consistent from classical into Koine periods, though the precise gestures indicated could vary by context.
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
apparently a primary verb; to "nod", i.e. (by analogy), signal:--beckon.
Root Family
νεύω (neuō) — to nod, to gesture, to signal nonverbally
Word Forms
2 distinct forms
| SIDANCE | Surface | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 | Occurrences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G3506-01 |
νεύει | neuei | V PRS ACT IND 3P SG |
beckons | he/she signals | he signals | 1 |
G3506-02 |
νεύσαντος | neusantos | V AOR ACT PTCP GEN M SG |
having beckoned | of having signaled | of having signaled | 1 |
Occurrences in Scripture
2 occurrences
| SIDANCE | Reference | Word | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G3506-01 |
John 13:24 | νεύει | neuei | V PRS ACT IND 3P SG |
beckons | he/she signals | he signals |
G3506-02 |
Acts 24:10 | νεύσαντος | neusantos | V AOR ACT PTCP GEN M SG |
having beckoned | of having signaled | of having signaled |