κατανεύω
kataneúō
G2656 verb
SILEX Entry
Definition
To gesture by a downward nod; to signal, usually with the head or hand, toward someone, often conveying consent, instruction, invitation, or communication without words. The primary sense involves physically indicating something or someone by nodding in a downward direction, though it may also extend more broadly to making any nonverbal gesture to attract attention or communicate intention.
Semantic Range
to gesture by nodding down, to make a nonverbal sign (with head or hand), to beckon, to convey consent or instruction by gesture, to signal to someone nonverbally
Root / Etymology
From κατα- ('down, according to') and νεύω ('to nod, to beckon'), forming a compound verb meaning 'to nod down, to beckon downward'.
Historical & Contextual Notes
In Koine Greek, κατανεύω is a rare word, attested in both classical and later periods, but its New Testament usage is limited. It primarily denotes a nonverbal gesture—typically a nod or movement—performed in the direction of a person to silently communicate, request, or direct attention. In the New Testament (e.g., Luke 5:7), the verb describes signalling to partners by means of gestures rather than speech. This form of communication was common in maritime, marketplace, or public settings where distance or noise made spoken language impractical. The meaning is consistent with earlier Greek usage, where νεύω alone could mean 'to nod,' but the prefixed κατα- adds the nuance of directionality ('downward' or 'toward'). English translations usually render this as 'to beckon' or 'to signal,' but the underlying Greek emphasizes the downward or directed aspect. The word contrasts with διανεύω or νεύω alone, which lack the directional emphasis. In the Septuagint and wider Koine usage, κατανεύω does not develop specialized religious or technical senses; its meaning remains rooted in physical, nonverbal communication.
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
from κατά and νεύω; to nod down (towards), i.e. (by analogy) to make signs to:--beckon.
Root Family
κατανεύω (kataneuō) — to nod, to make a sign, to gesture downward
Word Forms
1 distinct form
| SIDANCE | Surface | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | Occurrences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G2656-01 |
κατένευσαν | kateneusan | V AOR ACT IND 3P PL |
they signaled | they nodded down | 1 |
Occurrences in Scripture
1 total occurrence
| SIDANCE | Reference | Word | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G2656-01 |
Luke 5:7 | κατένευσαν | kateneusan | V AOR ACT IND 3P PL |
they signaled | they nodded down |