Nods

Nods are the plural of nod, a gesture consisting of the up-and-down movement of the head. The action is produced by flexion at the neck, typically with the chin moving toward the chest and back to a neutral position. Nods function as a nonverbal signal in human communication and are most commonly used to indicate assent, acknowledgement, or agreement. They can also signal attention or politeness, allow the speaker to continue, or indicate that information has been received.

Nod types include a short, quick nod that may signal agreement or acknowledgment, and a slower, longer nod that can indicate consideration or confirmation. In conversation, nodding is often used as a back-channel cue to show listening without interrupting.

Nod interpretation varies by culture and situation. In many Western contexts, a downward nod signifies yes, while a head shake is used to indicate no. The timing and intensity of a nod can affect its meaning, and some people nod to be courteous even if they do not fully agree. Beyond communication, "to nod" can also refer to briefly sinking into sleep, as in nodding off, a usage unrelated to agreement.

Nods are studied in fields such as psychology, anthropology, and communication studies as part of nonverbal behavior. They interact with other cues like gaze, facial expressions, and posture to shape social interaction.