ἐννεύω
enneúō
G1770 verb
SILEX Entry
Definition
To make a sign or signal by nodding, gesturing, or some form of nonverbal motion—primarily to indicate or communicate something without using words. The primary sense is to convey a message through bodily movement, especially the nodding or movement of the head; also used for general gestural communication, such as beckoning.
Semantic Range
to nod as a signal, to make a sign, to gesture for attention or instruction, to communicate nonverbally by motion or nod, to beckon, to indicate by gesture
Root / Etymology
From the prefix ἐν- (en-, 'in' or 'at') and the verb νεύω (neúō, 'to nod', 'to make a sign'), forming a compound verb meaning 'to nod at' or 'to gesture toward doing something.'
Historical & Contextual Notes
In classical Greek, νεύω is used for the general act of nodding, making a sign, or directing with a gesture. The compound ἐννεύω appears infrequently but emphasizes the act of making a signal toward someone, often to prompt action or to convey information discreetly. In the context of the New Testament (e.g., Luke 1:22; John 13:24), ἐννεύω specifically refers to communicating by gesture when speech is impossible or inappropriate, such as trying to get someone's attention or indicating a request without words. Typical English translations like 'to make signs' or 'to beckon' capture some of the meaning but do not always differentiate between subtlety, intent, or the physical nature of the gesture. The verb often implies an expectation that the recipient will understand the meaning of the gesture, drawing on shared context or situational cues. This differs from similar Greek verbs for explicit verbal instruction or command. The term is rare outside biblical and Hellenistic literature, and there is minimal semantic development from classical through Koine Greek.
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
from ἐν and νεύω; to nod at, i.e. beckon or communicate by gesture:--make signs.
Root Family
ἐννεύω (enneuō) — to nod, to gesture, to make a sign
Word Forms
1 distinct form
| SIDANCE | Surface | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 | Occurrences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G1770-01 |
ἐνένευον | eneneuon | V IMPF ACT IND 3P PL |
made signs | they were gesturing | they were gesturing | 1 |
Occurrences in Scripture
1 occurrence
| SIDANCE | Reference | Word | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G1770-01 |
Luke 1:62 | ἐνένευον | eneneuon | V IMPF ACT IND 3P PL |
made signs | they were gesturing | they were gesturing |