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cenno

nod, gesture, sign

noun CHEN-noh Rare
Communication Expressions

Also means

brief mention, hint

Usage Note

Cenno covers a wide range of small communicative signals: a nod of the head, a wave of the hand, a wink, or even a brief reference in a text (un cenno storico = 'a brief historical note'). Fare cenno means 'to signal, to beckon.' The related accenno leans more toward a verbal hint or passing remark.

Examples

"Mi fece un cenno con la mano per avvicinarmi."

Natural Translation

He waved at me to come closer.

Literal Translation

To-me he-made a sign with the hand to come-closer.

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