nodding

Everyday

1. Nodding is moving your head up and down, usually to say yes, to agree or to greet someone. tree →
2. Nodding off means falling asleep, often by accident. tree →
3. Nodding flowers hang their heads down. tree →

In the lessons

In everyday life, nodding is body language for yes or "I'm listening"; in some countries, such as Bulgaria, a nod can mean no. In class, nodding shows you understand. Phrases: "nodding off", "a nodding acquaintance" (knowing someone only a little), "nodding along".

Examples

• She was nodding to show she agreed. tree →
• Grandpa was nodding off in his chair. tree →
• The pupils sat nodding as the teacher explained. tree →
• He kept nodding along to the music. tree →
• Daffodils have nodding heads. tree →
• I asked if she was ready and she nodded. tree →
• "Yes," she said, nodding her head. tree →

Note

Double d: nod, nodded, nodding. Nodding usually means yes, but not in every culture. "Nod off" is informal for fall asleep.