What does gesticulate mean in Lord of the Flies? (Vocabulary)

What does gesticulate mean in Lord of the Flies

What does gesticulate mean in Lord of the Flies? If you’ve ever read Lord of the Flies and come across the word “gesticulate,” you might wonder what it means. In the novel, “gesticulate” refers to using gestures, especially big or dramatic ones, instead of speaking, or to help emphasize what someone is saying. The boys on the island often rely on these kinds of expressive movements to communicate their feelings, especially when words don’t seem like enough. Understanding this word adds another layer to how we see their interactions and emotions throughout the story.

What does gesticulate mean in Lord of the Flies?

In Lord of the Flies, the word “gesticulate” means to use gestures, often big or dramatic ones, instead of speaking, or to help emphasize what you’re saying. The boys sometimes gesticulate when they’re excited, frustrated, or trying to be understood in the chaos of the island.

For example, Golding writes:

“He gesticulated widely.”

This shows a character waving his arms or making noticeable movements to get his point across. Using gestures like this often happens when words aren’t enough, or when someone wants to make sure they’re really being heard. So, in the novel “gesticulate” highlights how the boys use their bodies to communicate as much as their voices, especially in stressful or emotional moments.

What does chorister mean in Lord of the Flies?

In Lord of the Flies, a “chorister” is someone who sings in or leads a choir. In the book, this word is used to describe Jack, who is introduced as the head boy and leader of the choir group that arrives on the island with him.

What does the voice mean in Lord of the Flies?

In Lord of the Flies, “the voice” refers to Piggy. His voice stands for reason and intelligence on the island, often reminding the boys to think things through and stick to order and logic, even when things start to fall apart.

What does Roger symbolize in Lord of the Flies?

In Lord of the Flies, Roger symbolizes pure evil and brutality. He bullies the littluns, kills Piggy by pushing a boulder on him, and tortures Samneric. Roger enjoys the power and control his violent behavior gives him, showing how far some people can go when rules and consequences disappear.

What are some vocabulary words from Lord of the Flies?

Some interesting vocabulary words from Lord of the Flies include “conch” (the shell used to call meetings), “creepers” (the vines on the island), “waxy” (British slang for angry or upset), “gesticulate” (to use gestures when speaking), and “vicissitudes” (changes in fortune, usually for the worse). The novel uses these words to help create a vivid setting and show how the boys’ world is changing.

Conclusion

In conclusion, “gesticulate” in Lord of the Flies describes how the boys use dramatic gestures to communicate, either instead of speaking or to put extra emphasis on their words. Expressing themselves this way really highlights how intense and emotional life on the island is, and it adds a lot of depth to how the boys interact with each other in the story.

Share this article