nonverbal

Nonverbal refers to communication signals that do not use spoken language. It covers facial expressions, body language, gestures, eye behavior, posture, proxemics (use of space), touch (haptics), and paralinguistic cues such as tone, pace, and volume, as well as appearance and timing. Nonverbal communication operates alongside verbal messages and can reinforce, contradict, or substitute for spoken words.

Facial expressions convey basic emotions; gestures and posture express attitudes or intentions; eye behavior communicates attention and interest; proxemics indicates social distance; haptics involves touch; paralinguistics refers to vocal qualities separate from the words themselves. Together with dress and artifacts, these cues create impressions that others interpret in context.

Functions include regulating conversation, signaling readiness to speak, expressing emotions, managing impressions, and aiding memory. Because nonverbal cues are often automatic and rapid, they can convey authenticity but are also susceptible to misinterpretation and bias, especially when a cue conflicts with verbal content.

Across cultures, some nonverbal signals are widely understood, but meanings vary by culture, setting, and individual factors such as age and gender. Misunderstandings are common in cross-cultural interactions, making awareness of context essential.

Research in psychology, anthropology, communication, and related fields uses observational coding systems, experimental methods, and technologies to analyze nonverbal behavior. Applications include education, clinical assessment, negotiations, marketing, and human–computer interaction. Disabilities and conditions can affect nonverbal communication, underscoring its role in social interaction.