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Virgin TV

2021-05-25T16:36:46Z

81.109.94.31: /* HD channels */

{{Other uses|Virgin TV (disambiguation)}}
{{Update|date=May 2020}}
{{EngvarB|date=June 2014}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=June 2014}}
{{Infobox broadcasting network
|name = Virgin TV
|image = [[File:Virgin Media.svg|200px]]
|type = [[Pay TV]]
|country = United Kingdom
|available = Cable television
|founded = March 2006<br>(February 2007 as ''Virgin TV'')
|slogan = "An Exciting Place to Live"
|broadcast_area = United Kingdom
|parent = [[Virgin Media]]
|owner = [[Liberty Global]]
|website = {{URL|http://virginmedia.com|VirginMedia.com}}
}}
'''Virgin TV''' is a digital pay [[cable television]] service in the UK, owned by [[Liberty Global]]. Its origins date from [[NTL Incorporated|NTL]] and [[Telewest]], formerly two of the UK's largest cable operators, which merged on 6 March 2006. All NTL:Telewest services were rebranded as [[Virgin Media]] in February 2007. Since the acquisition of [[Smallworld Cable]] in 2014, Virgin is the sole national cable TV provider in Great Britain.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.broadbandchoices.co.uk/guides/tv/cable-tv|title=All about cable TV - a broadbandchoices guide |website=broadbandchoices.co.uk}}</ref> {{As of|2019|alt= Currently}} about 51% of UK households have access to Virgin's network, which is independent from [[BT Group|BT]]'s [[Openreach]] network.<ref name="auto">{{Cite web |url=https://www.choose.co.uk/guide/virgin-media-available-in-my-area.html|title=StackPath|website=www.choose.co.uk}}</ref><ref name="Telegraph">{{cite news |last=White |first=Dominic |title=Virgin media launch to cost £20m |newspaper=[[The Daily Telegraph]] |date=20 January 2007 |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/money/main.jhtml?xml=/money/2007/01/20/cnvirgin20.xml |access-date=1 February 2007 |location=London}}</ref>

Virgin ranks as the UK's second-largest pay TV service, and the service is provided in conjunction with Virgin Media broadband and phone.<ref name="auto"/> As of Q3 2007, it had 3.6 million subscribers, compared to 8.2 million on its traditional rival [[Sky (UK and Ireland)|Sky]].<ref name="Ofcom Update">[http://www.ofcom.org.uk/research/tv/reports/dtv/dtv_2007_q3/dtvq307.pdf The Communications Market: Digital Progress Report -Digital TV Q3 2007] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080625013029/http://www.ofcom.org.uk/research/tv/reports/dtv/dtv_2007_q3/dtvq307.pdf |date=25 June 2008 }}, [[Ofcom]]. Retrieved on 23 February 2008</ref> As of 2009, Virgin's digital cable television currently uses the [[Nagravision]] 3 [[conditional access system]].<ref name="Your new TV Smart Card">{{cite web |url=http://allyours.virginmedia.com/html/help/smartcard/|title=Your new TV Smartcard|publisher=Virgin Media|access-date=16 October 2009}}</ref><ref name="Yorkshire smart card swap">{{cite web |url=http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/digitaltv/news/a183742/virgin-plans-yorkshire-smart-card-swap.html.html|title=Virgin plans Yorkshire smart card swap|website=Digital Spy|date=26 October 2009}}</ref> The service was fully digitalised in 2013.

Since November 2016, the service's flagship [[set top box]] is the [[TiVo]]-powered Virgin V6 Box, or the Virgin TV 360 which has an updated HORIZON interface,<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.virginmedia.com/corporate/media-centre/press-releases/game-changing-virgin-tv-launch|title=Game-changing Virgin TV Launch|website=Virgin Media}}</ref> competing with [[Sky Q]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.theguardian.com/technology/2019/nov/14/virgin-v6-tv-review-tv-recorder|title=Virgin V6 TV review: jack of all trades, master of none|date=14 November 2019|website=The Guardian}}</ref>

==History==
{{Further|Timeline of Cable Television in the UK}}

As of 2008, Virgin Media functioned as a single company; however, it relied on its three existing infrastructures: the [[Langley, Slough|Langley]]-based NTL, [[Bromley]]-based Cable and Wireless and [[Knowsley (village)|Knowsley]]-based Telewest platforms. As part of the Next Generation Television network, the infrastructure was consolidated into a single super [[Cable television headend|headend]] at Langley in 2010, with Knowsley serving as a backup.

In May 2008, Virgin Media began their "long term" region-by-region [[Analog television|analogue television]] service switch off project, beginning with [[Coventry]] and [[Glasgow]].<ref name="AnalogueSwitchOff">{{cite web |url=http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/digitaltv/a95712/virgin-begins-analogue-cable-switch-off.html |title= Virgin begins analogue cable switch off |access-date=12 May 2008}}</ref><ref name="Analogue switch-off">{{cite web |url=http://www.cableforum.co.uk/board/101/33640854-analogue-tv-switch-off-schedule.html |title=Analogue TV switch-off schedule |publisher=Cable Forum|date=1 November 2008}}</ref> In areas where analogue transmission will be turned off but no digital replacement introduced customers will be offered Virgin's off-network services, with the company looking at developing a television-over-DSL service for areas outside its cable network. Analogue subscribers in areas where digital cable services are already available will be offered transfers to new packages. The firm signalled that it wants to use the capacity to provide faster broadband internet.

On 11 September 2009, [[Cisco Systems]] announced a deal to support Virgin Media's Internet Protocol TV distribution platform and upgrade its legacy digital TV infrastructure. Virgin Media deployed Cisco Digital Video Headend technology in all of its regional and central headends, across its national fibre optic network. The TV platform will be capable of delivering advanced services to more than 12.6 million UK homes. The infrastructure helped Virgin Media to reduce operating expenses, support the rollout of new conditional-access security services, and accelerate the introduction of new standard and high-definition services.<ref name="Cisco Digital Video Headend">{{cite web |url=http://newsroom.cisco.com/dlls/2009/prod_091109.html|title=Virgin Media Upgrades Digital TV Platform With Cisco|publisher=Cisco|date=11 September 2009}}</ref> A Virgin Media spokesman later clarified that the plan "isn't quite announcing the 'launch of IPTV services'. The agreement with Cisco is to help enhance our existing TV platform, which broadcasts content over DVB-C and then our VoD service runs on IP."<ref name="Cisco Digital Video Headend2">{{cite web |url=http://www.lightreading.com/document.asp?doc_id=181664&site=cdn&f_src=lightreading_gnews|title=Virgin Taps Cisco for Video Upgrade|publisher=Cable Digital News|date=11 September 2009}}</ref>

On 24 November 2009, Virgin Media entered into a strategic partnership with [[TiVo]].<ref name="TiVo">{{cite web|url=http://tivo.mediaroom.com/index.php?s=43&item=419|title=Virgin Media Selects TiVo For Next Generation TV Platform|publisher=TiVo|date=24 November 2009|access-date=27 October 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091128104008/http://tivo.mediaroom.com/index.php?s=43&item=419|archive-date=28 November 2009|url-status=dead|df=dmy-all}}</ref> Under the mutually exclusive agreement, TiVo developed a converged television and broadband interactive interface to power Virgin Media's next generation, high definition set-top boxes. The terms of the deal were not disclosed. TiVo became the exclusive provider of middleware and user interface software for Virgin Media's next generation set top boxes. Virgin Media became the exclusive distributor of TiVo services and technology in the United Kingdom.

Virgin Media will pay TiVo monthly fees, which commenced upon delivery of its first set-top box, which are guaranteed and increase over time.<ref name="TiVo2">{{cite web|url=http://paidcontent.co.uk/article/419-tivo-re-entering-uk-with-co-branded-virgin-media-box-in-2010/|title=TiVo Re-Entering UK With Co-Branded Virgin Media Box in 2010|publisher=paidContent:UK|date=25 November 2009}}</ref> The agreement has a multi-year term with additional limited renewal rights granted to Virgin. The agreement created a mutually exclusive distribution arrangement under which TiVo will develop software for DVR set top box platforms and non-DVR set-top boxes that will be deployed in the future by Virgin in the United Kingdom. Virgin Media will promote the product and has exclusive rights to use the TiVo brand and technology in the United Kingdom. As part of the agreement, Virgin Media and TiVo entered into a mutual covenant not to assert with regards to each party's intellectual property. Investment bank [[Lazard Capital Markets]] estimated the hookup as a "$48 million deal" for TiVo. Virgin Media is to maintain its current Liberate middleware provided by [[SeaChange International]] through until at least January 2011.<ref name="Liberate Jan 2011">{{cite web|url=http://www.broadbandtvnews.com/2009/06/05/virgin-extends-liberate-contract/|title=Virgin extends Liberate contract|publisher=Broadband TV News|date=5 June 2009}}</ref>

In 2014 Virgin Media bought [[Smallworld Cable]], a regional cable company.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.virginmedia.com/corporate/media-centre/press-releases/virgin-media-acquires-smallworld-fibre|title=Virgin Media acquires Smallworld Fibre|website=Virgin Media}}</ref> As a result Virgin Media is now the only cable company in the UK apart from [[WightFibre]] which operates on the [[Isle of Wight]].

==Availability==
===Non-digital areas===
{{see also|Analogue television in the United Kingdom#Cable}}
The [[BT Group]] owned (but Virgin Media leased) [[Milton Keynes]] franchise which was analogue-only was switched off in November 2013.<ref name="AnalogueSwitchOff" /> BT's [[Openreach]] division selected Milton Keynes for a large scale fibre-to-the-premises trial (as opposed to fibre-to-the-cabinet in other parts of the UK). It remains to be seen what impact, if any, this will have on the viability of the Virgin Media leasing arrangement of the analogue HFC network there, which, uniquely, is believed to pass through BT infrastructure – not wholly VM's. The leasing arrangement dates back to 1999 and was mandated by the European Union in response to competition concerns surrounding BT's Cable TV interests in Milton Keynes and Westminster.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thefreelibrary.com/NTL+Acquires+Key+Strategic+BT+Cable+Franchises+Total+Franchise+Grows...-a055180810 |title=NTL acquires key strategic BT cable franchises total franchise grows to 5.8 million homes |publisher=Thefreelibrary.com |date=19 July 1999 |access-date=22 August 2010}}</ref> Virgin Media completely withdrew its services in Westminster on 31 January 2012, after being unable to upgrade the network and deliver their digital services at a reasonable cost.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ispreview.co.uk/story/2011/08/08/virgin-media-withdraws-cable-broadband-and-tv-services-from-westminster-uk.html |title=Virgin Media Withdraws Cable Broadband and TV Services from Westminster UK |publisher=ISPreview |date=8 August 2011 |access-date=8 August 2011}}</ref> The Milton Keynes cable network, which has a significant number of users due to technical satellite and aerial reception issues down to local geography,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ispreview.co.uk/story/2011/04/04/bt-and-virgin-media-dispute-holds-back-faster-broadband-and-tv-in-milton-keynes-uk.html |title=BT and Virgin Media Dispute Holds Back Faster Broadband and TV in Milton Keynes |publisher=ISPreview |date=4 April 2011 |access-date=5 November 2011}}</ref> does not suffer the same 'conservation' area rules as the Borough of Westminster. Milton Keynes remained analogue-only until the end of 2013, at which point the network was shut down due to a contractual breakdown with BT, the owners of the network in Milton Keynes.

During 2009 digital upgrade work began on the last Virgin Media owned analogue-only areas in Bolton, Slough and West London as well as parts of Leicester, Northern Ireland and Southampton, with most areas completed between 2010 and 2011. In these areas Virgin Media had only offered customers analogue cable television.

===Non-cabled areas===
For customers in non-cabled areas, Virgin Media offered a branded set-top box for the [[Freeview (UK)|Freeview]] digital terrestrial television service, called "Free TV", until December 2009 when it was discontinued.<ref name="Free TV">{{cite web |url=http://digital-lifestyles.info/2007/04/02/virgin-media-launches-virgin-free-tv-for-non-cable-customers/ |title=Virgin Media launches Virgin Free TV across the UK |access-date=30 January 2008}}</ref> The set-top box was free to any customer taking the Bundle One subscription package or for an addition fee to other customers, up to five additional set-top boxes were available per account.

The next phase of this service was to be a combined [[IPTV]] and digital terrestrial television service similar to [[BT Vision]] and [[TalkTalk TV]]. Virgin Media signed an agreement with Cable & Wireless to become the [[Local loop unbundling|unbundled local loop (LLU)]] network provider, providing access to 4 million homes outside of the Virgin Media cable franchise network and would include linear pay broadcast channels and [[video on demand]]. This was originally scheduled to be released during 2008 but was delayed and scaled back as Virgin Media concentrated on improving its cable broadband proposition instead of focusing on competing with [[Sky (UK & Ireland)|Sky]] in the premium television market.<ref name="IPTV">{{cite web|url=http://pressoffice.virginmedia.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=205406&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=968172&highlight=iptv|title=Virgin Media Reports Fourth Quarter 2006 Results|access-date=30 January 2008}}{{Dead link|date=July 2018 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref><ref name="IPTV2">{{cite web|url=http://pressoffice.virginmedia.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=205406&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1038015&highlight=iptv|title=Virgin Media Reports Second Quarter 2007 Results|access-date=30 January 2008}}{{Dead link|date=July 2018 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref><ref name="IPTV3">{{cite web|url=http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/digitaltv/a80716/virgin-media-to-delay-iptv-rollout.html|title= Virgin Media 'to delay IPTV rollout'|access-date=30 January 2008}}</ref> As of 2010, no further developments have been announced and the plans appear to have been abandoned.

==Products and services==
Virgin TV carries around 301 digital television and radio channels, including a mixture of subscription, premium subscription and pay-per-view channels.

===HD services and PVR===
{{See also|V+|TiVo}}

Telewest (one of Virgin Media's predecessors) became the first UK broadcaster to offer [[HDTV]], launching its service in December 2005; several months earlier than that of its chief competitor, [[Sky (UK & Ireland)|Sky]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.broadcastnow.co.uk/news/multi-platform/news/telewest-beats-sky-to-hd-launch/1032894.article |title=Telewest beats Sky to HD launch |publisher=Broadcast |date=1 December 2005 |access-date=22 August 2010}}</ref> An HD-enabled set-top box is required to view HDTV.

Virgin TV branded its original [[High-definition television|high-definition (HD)]] Digital Video Recorder ([[Digital video recorder|PVR]]) service as ''[[V+]]''. The service uses a [[Digital video recorder|PVR]] set-top box, with three tuners and a 160 [[Gigabyte|GB]] [[hard disk]] for up to 80 hours' recording. The presence of three tuners means that V+ can record two channels at the same time while viewers watch a third. This contrasts with most other PVR systems such as [[Sky+]], which supports only two tuners. In December 2010 a 1 [[Terabyte|TB]] [[TiVo]] HD PVR from Cisco was released,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/digitaltv/news/a290840/virgin-medias-tivo-platform-to-go-live.html|title=Virgin Media's TiVo platform to go live|website=Digital Spy|date=1 December 2010}}</ref> with a 500 GB model released in May 2011.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.techradar.com/news/internet/virgin-media-to-offer-500mb-tivo-box-in-may-942026|title=Virgin Media to offer 500GB TiVo box in May|work=TechRadar|date=11 April 2011|access-date=27 October 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110829081328/http://www.techradar.com/news/internet/virgin-media-to-offer-500mb-tivo-box-in-may-942026|archive-date=29 August 2011|url-status=dead|df=dmy-all}}</ref> From late 2011, [[Samsung Electronics]] will join Cisco as a second supplier of TiVo STBs for Virgin Media.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.pocket-lint.com/news/41978/samsung-virgin-media-tivo-box|title=Samsung to build next wave of Virgin Media TiVo boxes|publisher=Pocket-lint|date=8 September 2011}}</ref>

Virgin also offer a Cisco ''V HD Box'', for a fixed upgrade fee from their standard set-top box with no additional monthly subscription fee.<ref name="V HD">{{cite web|url=http://pressoffice.virginmedia.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=205406&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1402632&highlight=|title=Virgin TV Customers to See the HD Clearer Picture for No Monthly Fee|publisher=Virgin Media|date=16 March 2010}}{{dead link|date=September 2017 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref>

The V (HD) and V+ boxes are now obsolete and no longer supported. Newer TiVo-based boxes are the only supported devices for Virgin TV nowadays. The newest V6 box is very fast and multi-functional, however, it only supports a [[HDMI]]-equipped TV set (the [[SCART]] port is disabled and not supported) and requires a valid Virgin Media broadband service connection to the box. If these conditions are not met, only the older TiVo box can be used which has an operational SCART connector and an internal communication modem which removes a need for a broadband connection.

====HD channels====
{{See also|List of HD channels in the UK}}

At the product launch of Telewest's [[V+|TVDrive]] on 1 December 2005, the only HD channels available were [[BBC HD]] and [[ITV HD]] trial channels. ITV HD was removed from the network after the completion of the trial on 30 November 2006. On 1 December 2007, BBC HD was transformed into a full service.<ref name="BBC HD">{{Cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/bbctrust/news/press_releases/2007/hdtv_final.html|title=BBC Trust approves proposals for a BBC HD channel|publisher=BBC Trust|date=19 November 2007}}</ref>

During 2009, Virgin launched [[Fox (UK and Ireland)|FX HD]],<ref name="3 HD July 09" /> [[MTV Live HD|MTVNHD]],<ref name="3 HD July 09" /> [[National Geographic Channel (UK)|National Geographic HD]],<ref name="3 HD July 09">{{Cite web|url=http://pressoffice.virginmedia.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=205406&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1313698&highlight=|title=Virgin Media and Channel 4 bring 4HD to millions of TV screens|publisher=Virgin Media|date=29 July 2009}}{{Dead link|date=July 2018 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> [[Channel 4|Channel 4 HD]],<ref name="C4HD">{{cite web|url=http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/digitaltv/a168390/c4-hd-coming-to-virgin-media-tomorrow.html|title=C4 HD coming to Virgin Media tomorrow|website=Digital Spy|date=30 July 2009}}</ref> [[ESPN (UK)|ESPN HD]]<ref name="ESPN">{{Cite web|url=http://pressoffice.virginmedia.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=205406&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1313434&highlight=|title=Virgin Media and ESPN announce channel deal ahead of Premier League football season|publisher=Virgin Media|date=29 July 2009}}{{dead link|date=September 2017 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> and [[Sky Living|Living HD]].<ref name="Living HD Launch Date">{{Cite web|url=http://pressoffice.virginmedia.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=205406&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1335485&highlight=|title=LIVING in HD with Virgin Media|publisher=Virgin Media|date=25 September 2009}}{{Dead link|date=July 2018 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> Living HD represented the first HD channel to be made exclusively available to Virgin TV.

In 2010, Media added [[E4 (TV channel)|E4 HD]],<ref name="Film4 E4 HD" /> [[Syfy (UK and Ireland)|Syfy HD]],<ref name="Sci Fi HD" /> [[Discovery HD]],<ref name="Discovery HD" /> [[Eurosport HD]],<ref name="Eurosport HD">{{Cite web|url=http://pressoffice.virginmedia.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=205406&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1382296&highlight=|title=Eurosport HD kicks off new round of HD channels on Virgin Media|publisher=Virgin Media|date=3 February 2010}}{{dead link|date=September 2017 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> [[ITV HD]],<ref name="ITV1 HD">{{Cite web|url=http://www.itv.com/presscentre/pressreleases/programmepressreleases/itv1hdtolaunchinapril/default.html|title=New ITV1 HD channel available on Freesat, Freeview, Sky and Virgin|publisher=ITV plc|date=12 March 2010|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100322201848/http://www.itv.com/presscentre/pressreleases/programmepressreleases/itv1hdtolaunchinapril/default.html|archive-date=22 March 2010|df=dmy-all}}</ref><ref name="ITV1 HD2" /> [[STV (TV network)|STV HD]],<ref name="STV HD">{{cite web|url=http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/digitaltv/news/a222947/stv-confirms-stv-hd-launch-plans.html|title=STV confirms STV HD launch plans|website=Digital Spy|date=1 June 2010}}</ref> [[Channel 5 (UK)|Channel 5 HD]],<ref name="Five HD">{{Cite web|url=http://pressoffice.virginmedia.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=205406&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1446758&highlight= |title=A Virgin Media high five for High Definition Five |publisher=Virgin Media |date=13 July 2010 }}{{dead link|date=January 2017 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> [[Film4|Film4 HD]],<ref name="Film4 E4 HD">{{Cite web|url=http://pressoffice.virginmedia.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=205406&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1399781&highlight=|title=Film4 HD To Launch Exclusively on Virgin Media|publisher=Virgin Media|date=8 March 2010}}{{Dead link|date=July 2018 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> ten [[Sky Movies]] HD channels,<ref name="Sky Movies Sports" /> [[Sky Sports]] HD1 and HD2,<ref name="Sky Movies Sports">{{Cite web|url=http://pressoffice.virginmedia.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=205406&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1449279&highlight=|title=Virgin Media Shows Its Competitors the Red Card|publisher=Virgin Media|date=20 July 2010}}{{Dead link|date=July 2018 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> [[Sky1|Sky1 HD]],<ref name="Sky1 HD">{{cite web|url=http://www.theairwaves.net/index.php/cable/4263-sky1-hd-to-launch-on-vm-on-friday|title=Sky1 HD to launch on VM on Friday|publisher=TheAirwaves|date=28 September 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110724100437/http://www.theairwaves.net/index.php/cable/4263-sky1-hd-to-launch-on-vm-on-friday|archive-date=24 July 2011}}</ref> [[Comedy Central (UK)|Comedy Central HD]],<ref name="Comedy Central HD">{{Cite web|url=http://pressoffice.virginmedia.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=205406&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1456823&highlight=|title=Comedy Central HD to launch on Virgin Media|publisher=Virgin Media|date=5 August 2010}}{{dead link|date=September 2017 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> [[UTV (TV channel)|UTV HD]]<ref name="UTV HD">{{cite web|url=http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/digitaltv/news/a280349/utv-hd-launches-on-virgin-media-ni.html|title=UTV HD launches on Virgin Media NI|website=Digital Spy|date=5 October 2010}}</ref> and [[BBC One|BBC One HD]].<ref name="BBC One HD">{{Cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/pressoffice/pressreleases/stories/2010/10_october/21/bbconehd.shtml|title=BBC One HD Channel to launch 3 November and EastEnders to go HD on Christmas Day|publisher=BBC|date=21 October 2010}}</ref> Both Film4 HD and UTV HD are exclusive to Virgin TV.

In 2011, Virgin Media added [[Sky Arts|Sky Arts 1 HD]] and 2 HD,<ref name="Sky Arts HD">{{cite web|url=http://pressoffice.virginmedia.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=205406&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1547598&highlight=|title=Virgin Media announces arrival of Sky Arts 1 HD & 2 HD|publisher=Virgin Media|date=7 April 2011}}{{Dead link|date=July 2018 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> [[Eurosport|Eurosport 3D]],<ref name="Eurosport 3D" /> Sky Movies Classics HD,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://wotsat.techradar.com/news/virgin-media-add-seven-uktv-channels-04-10-11|title=Virgin Media to add seven UKTV channels|publisher=What Satellite and Digital TV|date=4 October 2011|access-date=17 January 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111005035945/http://wotsat.techradar.com/news/virgin-media-add-seven-uktv-channels-04-10-11|archive-date=5 October 2011|url-status=dead}}</ref> [[Dave (TV channel)|Dave HD]] and [[Watch (TV channel)|Watch HD]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://my.virginmedia.com/customer-news/articles/UKTVNew/|title=Virgin TV just got even bigger|publisher=Virgin Media|access-date=4 October 2011|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111011064522/http://my.virginmedia.com/customer-news/articles/UKTVNew/|archive-date=11 October 2011|df=dmy-all}}</ref>

In 2012, Virgin Media added Eurosport 3D,<ref name="BBC Olympics Eurosport 3D" /> [[Alibi (TV channel)|Alibi HD]], British Eurosport HD,<ref name="British Eurosport HD">{{cite web|url=http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/news/british-eurosport-launches-hd-channels-100710591.html|title=British Eurosport launches HD channels|publisher=Yahoo! Eurosport UK|date=3 July 2012|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120726020214/http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/news/british-eurosport-launches-hd-channels-100710591.html|archive-date=26 July 2012|df=dmy-all}}</ref> the BBC's 24 Olympic HD channels<ref name="BBC Olympics Eurosport 3D" /> and Channel 4's 3 Paralympic channels.<ref>{{cite magazine|url=http://www.radiotimes.com/news/2012-08-15/channel-4-to-offer-three-dedicated-paralympic-games-channels|title=Channel 4 to offer three dedicated Paralympic Games channels|magazine=Radio Times|date=15 August 2012}}</ref>

In 2013, Virgin Media added [[Cartoon Network (UK & Ireland)|Cartoon Network HD]], [[Turner Classic Movies (UK & Ireland)|TCM HD]],<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/media/news/a451653/tcm-and-cartoon-network-launch-in-hd-on-virgin-media.html|title=TCM and Cartoon Network launch in HD on Virgin Media|website=Digital Spy|date=17 January 2013}}</ref> [[Eurosport 2|British Eurosport 2 HD]], [[ITV2|ITV2 HD]], [[ITV3|ITV3 HD]], [[ITV4|ITV4 HD]],<ref>{{cite web |url=http://mediacentre.virginmedia.com/Stories/Virgin-Media-introduces-HDelightful-ITV-channels-245a.aspx |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130514054747/http://mediacentre.virginmedia.com/Stories/Virgin-Media-introduces-HDelightful-ITV-channels-245a.aspx |url-status=dead |archive-date=14 May 2013 |title=Virgin Media introduces HDelightful ITV channels |publisher=Virgin Media |date=14 March 2013 |access-date=30 April 2013 }}</ref> [[BBC Two|BBC Two HD]], [[TLC (UK and Ireland)|TLC HD]], [[NHK World|NHK World HD]], [[Animal Planet (UK TV channel)|Animal Planet HD]], [[BBC Red Button|BBC Red Button HD]],<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/aboutthebbc/posts/A-BBC-Red-Button-summer|title=A BBC Red Button summer 2013|publisher=BBC|date=10 June 2013}}</ref> [[MTV (UK and Ireland)|MTV HD]], [[Nickelodeon (UK and Ireland)|Nickelodeon HD]],<ref>{{cite web |url=http://mediacentre.virginmedia.com/Stories/New-channels-signal-summer-of-fun-for-Virgin-Media-247f.aspx |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130720080029/http://mediacentre.virginmedia.com/Stories/New-channels-signal-summer-of-fun-for-Virgin-Media-247f.aspx |url-status=dead |archive-date=20 July 2013 |title=New channels signal summer of fun for Virgin Media |publisher=Virgin Media |date=27 June 2013 |access-date=29 June 2013 }}</ref> [[BT Sport|BT Sport 1 HD]], BT Sport 2 HD and [[More4|More4 HD]].

Later in the 2010s, Virgin Media began removing standard definition feeds of channels it offers in high definition. The first SD removal was on 25 September 2018 when [[Gold (UK TV channel)|Gold]]'s SD channel is removed from the platform. This was followed on 4 December by the removal of the stand definition feeds of [[BT Sport]] and a week later, [[BBC Two]] in SD was replaced on channel 102 by the high definition version although BBC Two continues to be available in SD as ''BBC Two England'' on channel 862.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.cableforum.uk/board/showthread.php?t=33607636&page=80|title=Virgin Media Changelog page 80|publisher=Cable Forum |date=11 December 2018 |accessdate=22 May 2019}}</ref>

2019 sees the ending of the broadcast of many more channels in standard definition, including [[BBC Four]], [[BBC News (TV channel)|BBC News]], [[CBBC (TV channel)|CBBC]] and [[CBeebies]] (SD channels removed on 19 February),<ref>[https://www.a516digital.com/2019/02/virgin-media-to-move-bbc-hd-channels-to.html Virgin Media to move BBC HD channels to prime EPG slots]{{dead link|date=April 2021}}</ref> [[Lifetime (UK and Irish TV channel)|Lifetime]], [[History (European TV channel)|History]], [[H2 (A&E Networks)|H2]] and [[Crime & Investigation (European TV channel)|Crime & Investigation]] (removed on 14 May),<ref name="auto1">{{cite web|url=https://www.cableforum.uk/board/showthread.php?t=33607636&page=83|title=Virgin Media Changelog page 83|publisher=Cable Forum |date=14 May 2019|accessdate=22 May 2019}}</ref> the [[Sky Cinema]] channels (apart from [[Sky Movies Premiere]] +1, removed on 1 August),<ref name="auto1"/> [[Eurosport]] and [[Discovery (UK and Ireland)|Discovery]] (removed on 26 September).<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://community.virginmedia.com/t5/News/Channel-Changes-26th-September/ba-p/4070894|title=Channel Changes 26th September|date=25 September 2019|website=Virgin Media Community}}</ref>

On 27 May 2020, [[Sky Documentaries]] and [[Sky Nature]] launched on Virgin Media but the platform only provided the high definition versions of the channel although towards the end of the year, the SD versions also appeared so that the channels could be watched by lower tier customers who do not have access to Virgin media's high definition feeds of pay channels.

===On demand===
Virgin TV ranks as the UK's largest provider of on-demand content, with over 3 million [[video on demand]] (VoD) customers and {{As of|2011|10|lc=y}} over 6,500 hours of programming.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://mediacentre.virginmedia.com/Stories/Sky-Anytime-on-Virgin-Media-rolls-out-on-TV-and-online-21da.aspx|title=Sky Anytime on Virgin Media rolls out on TV and online|publisher=Virgin Media|date=12 October 2011|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111014224551/http://mediacentre.virginmedia.com/Stories/Sky-Anytime-on-Virgin-Media-rolls-out-on-TV-and-online-21da.aspx|archive-date=14 October 2011|df=dmy-all}}</ref>

The company {{As of|2007|alt=currently}} brands its VOD service as "On Demand". In contrast to the Sky On Demand system from [[Sky (UK & Ireland)|Sky]], Virgin Media offers a "true" VOD system, allowing customers to stream programmes whenever they want to watch them from servers at the customer's local [[Cable television headend|head end]]. As the broadcaster automatically stores content on Virgin Media servers, this removes the need to pre-record many programmes. Users can search through a large library of programmes (called "TV Choice") from [[content provider]]s including the [[BBC]], [[ITV (TV network)|ITV]],<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.cableforum.co.uk/article/418/virgin-media-adds-itv-player-to-its-video-on-demand-service |title=Virgin Media adds ITV Player to its Video-On-Demand service |publisher=Cable Forum |access-date=22 August 2010}}</ref> [[Channel 4]], [[Channel 5 (UK)|Channel 5]], [[Cartoon Network (UK & Ireland)|Cartoon Network]], [[Disney Channel (UK and Ireland)|Disney Channel]], [[Discovery Networks UK|Discovery Networks]], [[National Geographic Channel (UK)|National Geographic]], [[CBS Paramount Television|CBS Paramount]], [[Buena Vista (Walt Disney Company)|Buena Vista]], [[Alliance Atlantis]], [[Warner Bros.]], [[Viacom (2005–present)|Viacom]] ([[MTV (UK and Ireland)|MTV]], [[Comedy Central (UK)|Comedy Central]], [[Nickelodeon (UK & Ireland)|Nickelodeon]]), [[Current TV]], [[BabyTV]], [[PictureBox Movies]], [[NBC Universal]] and [[BSkyB]]; and watch them when they want to. Subscribers to Virgin Media's premier television package, ''Size: XL'', have the content included in their subscription, while other customers can pay £5 per month for unlimited access, or can utilise pay-per-view. In addition, Virgin Media offers a "Catch-up" service, which includes a free 7-day "watch-again" feature for selected television programmes broadcast by the BBC, ITV, Channel 4 and Channel 5. The service also offers over 500 films (service-branded "[[FilmFlex]]"), and more than 8000 music-videos. On 12 July 2007 the music videos became free for all XL customers.<ref>[http://diginews.name/digital/virgin-media-free-music-on-demand Diginews.name] {{webarchive|url=https://archive.is/20120707161729/http://diginews.name/digital/virgin-media-free-music-on-demand |date=7 July 2012 }}</ref>

Additionally, it was revealed that {{As of|2008|lc=y}} one third of BBC television programmes viewed on its [[BBC iPlayer|iPlayer]] service are accessed through Virgin Media's on Demand service and that 50% of all Virgin Media customers "regularly" use on Demand services.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/digitaltv/a131162/virgin-accounts-for-third-of-iplayer-viewing.html |title=Virgin 'accounts for third of iPlayer viewing' |website=Digital Spy |date=26 September 2008 |access-date=22 August 2010}}</ref>

On 25 November 2009, Virgin Media added dynamic advertising using [[SeaChange International]]'s AdPulse system.<ref name="AdPulse">{{cite web|url=http://pressoffice.virginmedia.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=205406&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1359179&highlight=|title=Virgin Media rolls out on demand TV advertising|publisher=Virgin Media|date=25 November 2009}}{{Dead link|date=July 2018 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> Ads will appear in thirty second pre-roll and post-roll ads which will be matched to the programme being watched.

In January 2010, Virgin Media launched Virgin Media Music, offering over 3,500 videos to watch completely free.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://blogs.virginmedia.com/musiceditorblog/ents-music-user-feedback.html|title=Got some feedback for Virgin Media Music?|publisher=Virgin Media|date=15 January 2010}}</ref> Virgin Media confirmed it would be launching a rival to both the BBC iPlayer and [[Sky Player]] by the end of 2010, with subscribers accessing content both online and through their mobile devices.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.techradar.com/news/internet/virgin-media-to-launch-rival-to-sky-player-in-2010-679451|title=Virgin Media to launch rival to Sky Player in 2010|work=Tech Radar|date=25 March 2010}}</ref>

On 26 April 2010, Virgin Media announced the launch of its first online movies service: Virgin Media Online Movies.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://phoenix.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=205406&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1417528&highlight=|archive-url=https://archive.is/20120728170833/http://phoenix.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=205406&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1417528&highlight=|url-status=dead|archive-date=28 July 2012|title=Virgin Media launches first online movies service|publisher=Virgin Media|date=26 April 2010}}</ref> All rentals will offer unlimited streamed views for 48 hours so viewers can pause, rewind and watch again, plus the film can be watched wherever the account holder logs on. Virgin Media Online Movies is powered by [[FilmFlex|FilmFlex Movies Ltd.]], the service is delivered over the web using [[Microsoft Silverlight]] and will initially present movies in standard definition.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.reghardware.co.uk/2010/04/26/virgin_to_offer_movie_streaming/|title=Virgin Media fires up movie streaming service|publisher=Reg Hardware|date=26 April 2010}}</ref> A HD version of the service is in testing, though there is no word on when it might become available.

On 29 July 2010, Virgin Media announced the beta launch of ''Virgin Media Player'', an online and mobile TV player. Hundreds of hours of content for the beta trial were made available from ITV plc, [[Living (UK TV channel)|Living]], [[Disney Channel (UK and Ireland)|Disney]], [[Cartoon Network (UK & Ireland)|Cartoon Network]], [[National Geographic Channel (UK)|National Geographic]], [[Discovery Channel (UK TV channel)|Discovery]] and [[MTV Networks Europe]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pressoffice.virginmedia.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=205406&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1453492&highlight=|title=Expands three-screen line-up with MTV Networks UK & Ireland agreement|publisher=Virgin Media|date=29 July 2010}}{{Dead link|date=July 2018 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> The beta trial is open to Virgin Media's XL TV customers who also have a broadband connection with the company. Virgin Media brought more content to Virgin Media Player as the company built towards full launch later in the year. Virgin Mobile pay monthly customers are able to access an hour of Virgin Media Player every day, at no extra charge. Virgin Media Player on mobile launched with [[4oD]] content which was joined by MTV Snax, [[MTV Music (UK and Ireland)|MTV Music]], [[Nickelodeon (UK & Ireland)|Nickelodeon]] and [[Comedy Central (UK)|Comedy Central]].

A full launch for Virgin Media Player happened in late October 2010 on both computers and mobiles, with the latter charging additional fees for each hour or part hour of access on an escalating price scale, and availability initially only over 3G not Wi-Fi.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.virginmedia.com/player/faqs.php#mobile|title=How do I watch Virgin Media Player on My Mobile?|publisher=Virgin Media|access-date=28 October 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101206163310/http://www.virginmedia.com/player/faqs.php#mobile|archive-date=6 December 2010|url-status=dead}}</ref> A facility allowing customers to watch a programme on one device, pause it and then continue viewing from exactly the same point via another device expected to be added in mid-2011.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.theinquirer.net/inquirer/news/1733009/anytime-telly-2012|title=Anytime anywhere telly could be here by 2012|publisher=The Inquirer|date=14 September 2010}}</ref>

On 7 September 2012, Virgin Media announced the launch of ''Virgin TV Anywhere'', a new service that will enable Virgin TV customers to watch live TV channels and on-demand content via the internet through their computer or [[iOS]] device, similar to [[Sky Go]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/tech/news/a404474/virgin-media-to-launch-tv-anywhere-streaming-service.html|title=Virgin Media to launch TV Anywhere streaming service|website=Digital Spy|date=7 September 2012}}</ref> The service was launched two months later on 7 November 2012, replacing ''Virgin Media Player.''.

====HD on demand====
At the product launch of Telewest's TVDrive on 1 December 2005, their Teleport service included a modest selection of on demand HD content including episodes of BBC nature documentaries [[Pride (2004 film)|Pride]], [[The Blue Planet]] and Wild Weather, pay-per-view episodes of [[Lost (TV series)|Lost]] and [[Desperate Housewives]] from [[Channel 4]], a small selection of documentaries from the History Channel, [[Metropolitan Opera Live in HD]]'s [[The Magic Flute]] and pay-per-view films from [[FilmFlex]].<ref name="TV Drive review">{{cite news|url=http://www.techradar.com/reviews/audio-visual/digital-tv-receivers/telewest-tvdrive-128799/review?artc_pg=1|title=Telewest TV Drive review|work=TechRadar|date=20 December 2006|access-date=17 January 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130728114353/http://www.techradar.com/reviews/audio-visual/digital-tv-receivers/telewest-tvdrive-128799/review?artc_pg=1|archive-date=28 July 2013|url-status=dead|df=dmy-all}}</ref><ref name="TV Drive review3">{{Cite web|url=http://www.reghardware.co.uk/2006/03/13/telewest_tvdrive_reviewed/|title=Telewest TVDrive HDTV-enabled PVR|publisher=Register Hardware|date=13 March 2006}}</ref>

On 8 October 2007, Virgin Media announced that they had struck a deal with Channel 4 that enables them to offer a selection of Channel 4 programming in HD via their TV on demand service.<ref name="4oDHD">{{Cite web|url=http://pressoffice.virginmedia.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=205406&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1060314|title=Virgin Media lines up further HD entertainment|publisher=Virgin Media|date=8 October 2007}}{{Dead link|date=July 2018 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref>

On 8 January 2009, it was announced that [[ITV Player]] would be added to Virgin Media's digital cable TV service.<ref name="ITV Player">{{Cite web|url=http://pressoffice.virginmedia.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=205406&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1241606&highlight=|title=Thousands of hours of ITV shows to be made available on demand by Virgin Media|publisher=Virgin Media|date=8 January 2009}}{{Dead link|date=July 2018 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> A selection of ITV's High Definition programming was supposed to be made available on demand as part of the deal. 12 March 2010, it was announced that some of ITV HD's content will be available on demand via ITV Net Player on Virgin Media's TV platform.<ref name="ITV1 HD2">{{Cite web|url=http://pressoffice.virginmedia.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=205406&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1401852&highlight=|title=Watch the World Cup in HD with Virgin Media and ITV|publisher=Virgin Media|date=12 March 2010}}{{Dead link|date=July 2018 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref>

On 16 April 2009, the BBC announced that they would offer HD content through [[BBC iPlayer]], with a Virgin Media spokesperson adding "We're working closely with the BBC to make this service available on our platform as soon as possible."<ref name="BBC iPlayer HD">{{Cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/technology/8000556.stm|title=BBC iPlayer goes high definition|publisher=BBC|date=16 April 2009}}</ref><ref name="BBC iPlayer HD2">{{cite news|url=http://www.techradar.com/news/internet/official-bbc-iplayer-goes-hd-592713|title=Official: BBC iPlayer goes HD|work=Tech Radar|date=16 April 2009}}</ref> HD content, including [[Robin Hood (2006 TV series)|Robin Hood]], [[Friday Night with Jonathan Ross]] and [[Later... with Jools Holland]], became available on 1 May 2009.<ref name="BBC iPlayer HD3">{{Cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/pressoffice/pressreleases/stories/2009/05_may/01/hd.shtml|title=HD content comes to BBC iPlayer on Virgin Media|publisher=BBC|date=1 May 2009}}</ref>

On 29 June 2009, Virgin Media announced that from July the [[PictureBox Movies|PictureBox]] movie service would be made available to Virgin Media's 3.6 million TV subscribers providing a broad selection of 28 films at any given time, with seven new titles being added to the line-up each Friday. Most of the PictureBox films are available in HD and many will not yet have been seen on free-to-air television in the UK. It marks the PictureBox's first UK platform to present films in HD.<ref name="Picturebox">{{Cite web|url=http://pressoffice.virginmedia.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=205406&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1302793&highlight=|title=Virgin Media And Universal Pictures Launch "Picturebox" Movies-On-Demand Service|publisher=Virgin Media|date=29 June 2009}}{{Dead link|date=July 2018 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref>

On 17 September 2009, Virgin Media announced an agreement with [[The Walt Disney Company|Disney]], securing the rights for three TV channels ([[Disney Channel (UK and Ireland)|Disney Channel]], [[Disney XD (UK & Ireland)|Disney XD]] and [[Playhouse Disney (UK & Ireland)|Playhouse Disney]]), TV on demand content including HD programming and on demand content to be made available online. The deal also includes the rights for Virgin Media to air Disney XD and on demand content from Disney XD via the mobile.<ref name="Disney three-screen">{{Cite web|url=http://pressoffice.virginmedia.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=205406&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1332849&highlight=|title=Virgin Media signs first three-screen deal|publisher=Virgin Media|date=17 September 2009}}{{Dead link|date=July 2018 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref>

On 10 February 2010, Virgin announced that [[Discovery Networks]] would make HD on demand content available, such as ''[[Deadliest Catch]]'' and ''[[Miami Ink]]'', during Spring 2010 as part of a deal to add Discovery HD.<ref name="Discovery HD">{{Cite web|url=http://pressoffice.virginmedia.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=205406&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1385942&highlight=|title=Virgin Media customers to get Discovery HD channel and more HD programmes on demand|publisher=Virgin Media|date=10 February 2010}}{{dead link|date=September 2017 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> On 15 March 2010, Virgin Media and [[NBC Universal Global Networks]] announced that they would also look to make HD content available on demand where possible, as part of the deal to add Sci Fi HD.<ref name="Sci Fi HD">{{Cite web|url=http://pressoffice.virginmedia.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=205406&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1402166&highlight=|title=SCI FI HD to be beamed up to Virgin TV viewers|publisher=Virgin Media|date=15 March 2010}}{{Dead link|date=July 2018 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref>

On 5 August 2010, Virgin Media announced that popular Comedy Central HD programmes available on demand from 1 September 2010.<ref name="Comedy Central HD" /> [[HBO]] content such as ''[[The Sopranos]]'' were removed on 14 October 2010, following HBO's exclusive deal with Sky, which led to the creation of [[Sky Atlantic]].

On 25 October 2010, Virgin Media announced a deal with [[NBC Universal Television Distribution]] for the video-on-demand rights in the UK to a broad selection of [[NBC Universal]] series.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://pressoffice.virginmedia.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=205406&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1486413&highlight=|title=Virgin Media Enters Agreement with NBC Universal International Television Distribution|publisher=Virgin Media|date=25 October 2010}}{{Dead link|date=July 2018 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> Under the terms of the agreement, these titles will be offered as new content across Virgin Media's three entertainment platforms; TV, online and mobile. From 1 December, Virgin Media customers were able to access past seasons of shows such as ''[[House (TV series)|House]]'', ''[[Heroes (U.S. TV series)|Heroes]]'', ''[[The Office (U.S. TV series)|The Office]]'' and ''[[30 Rock]]'', in HD through TV on Demand.

On 11 November 2010, Virgin Media announced a multiscreen deal with [[Channel 5 (UK)|Channel Five]] to bring programming from all of Five's linear TV channels to its TV, online and mobile video on demand platforms, with some shows also available in HD.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pressoffice.virginmedia.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=205406&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1495095&highlight=|title=Catch-up with Demand Five on Virgin Media|publisher=Virgin Media|date=11 November 2010}}{{Dead link|date=July 2018 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref>

The service has access to video on demand: current HD providers include [[BBC]], FilmFlex, Fox, [[History (UK TV channel)|History]], National Geographic Channel and PictureBox programming. Notable content includes ''[[Planet Earth (2006 TV series)|Planet Earth]]'' and ''[[Dexter (TV series)|Dexter]]''.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.virginmedia.com/tvradio/ondemand/new-tvlist.php?nocatchup=1&hdonly=1&ob=channel&od=asc|title=TV Choice & More on Demand|publisher=Virgin Media|access-date=13 November 2009}}</ref>

===3D===
All of Virgin Media's HD set-top boxes are [[3D television|3D]] compatible.

Virgin Media had displayed a V+ in their [[Oxford Street]] store using [[Polarized 3D glasses|polarised glasses]] and trialled over a private video on demand network using a HD stream interlaced with two pictures in 2009.<ref name="Eurosport HD" /><ref name="V+ 3D ready">{{cite news|url=http://www.techradar.com/news/television/in-pictures-virgin-media-3d-tv-showcase-648000|title=In pictures: Virgin Media 3D TV showcase|work=TechRadar|date=9 November 2009}}</ref><ref name="V+ 3D ready2">{{cite news|url=http://www.techradar.com/news/television/hdtv/virgin-media-s-3d-tv-tests-a-success--647971|title=Virgin Media's 3D TV tests 'a success'|work=TechRadar|date=9 November 2009}}</ref> In March 2010, during the [[Ideal Home Show]] at the [[Earls Court Exhibition Centre]], Virgin Media showcased a reel of 3D content – including sport and video games – as a taste of its plans for 3D television.<ref name="3DOD">{{cite web|url=http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/digitaltv/news/a209948/virgin-media-outlines-3d-on-demand-plans.html|title=Virgin Media outlines 3D on-demand plans|website=Digital Spy|date=22 March 2010}}</ref> Virgin confirmed plans to start offering 3D content to subscribers via its on-demand platform rather than launching a static channel. The demo used [[Stereoscopy#Active|active glasses]] but Virgin Media said that its 3D service would also support [[Stereoscopy#Passive|passive glasses]].

On 28 September 2010, Virgin Media announced the launch of 3D Movies on Demand – the first commercially available 3D TV service in the UK.<ref name="V+ 3D launch">{{Cite web|url=http://pressoffice.virginmedia.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=205406&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1475277&highlight=|title=Virgin Media brings 3D TV to UK living rooms|publisher=Virgin Media|date=28 September 2010}}{{Dead link|date=July 2018 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> All Virgin Media TV customers, with either a V HD, V+ or TiVo box, 3D TV and glasses, are able to experience 3D Movies on Demand. The launch of 3D Movies on Demand, powered by [[FilmFlex]], initially featured ''[[StreetDance 3D]]'', ''[[Garfield's Pet Force|Garfield's Pet Force 3D]]'', ''[[A Christmas Carol (2009 film)|A Christmas Carol 3D]]'', ''[[Step Up 3D]]'' and ''[[Despicable Me|Despicable Me 3D]]''. Virgin Media also announced an exclusive 3D TV partnership with [[Samsung Electronics]] which would see Samsung 3D TVs featured in Virgin Media stores as well as other joint 3D showcases and marketing opportunities.

Virgin Media also committed to investing in producing original 3D content. "We can confirm we're looking at producing original content in 3D, it makes sense for us to look at things like live music with the Virgin Media [[V Festival]]," said [[Cindy Rose]], executive director of digital entertainment at Virgin Media.<ref name="Produce 3D">{{cite news|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/technology/news/8035420/Virgin-Media-to-produce-its-own-3D-TV-content.html|title=Virgin Media 'to produce its own 3D TV content'|newspaper=The Daily Telegraph|date=1 October 2010}}</ref> Going on to explain that movies in 3D would remain available on a paid-for basis, but Virgin Media customers would be able to access other 3D content, such as TV shows, for free. She confirmed that the company has already secured the rights of a couple of TV programmes to be shown in 3D, but could not name them yet.

Between 22 May and 5 June 2011, [[Eurosport|Eurosport 3D]] was broadcast exclusively on Virgin Media for the [[2011 French Open]].<ref name="Eurosport 3D">{{cite web|url=http://pressoffice.virginmedia.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=205406&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1563752&highlight=|title=Virgin Media loves all French Open Tennis in 3D Centre Court action from Eurosport exclusively live in 3D|publisher=Virgin Media|date=16 May 2011}}{{dead link|date=September 2017 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> Selected 3D matches were also available on demand. The channel will return on 27 May 2012, to cover the [[2012 French Open]] and [[2012 Summer Olympics]].<ref name="BBC Olympics Eurosport 3D">{{cite web|url=http://mediacentre.virginmedia.com/Stories/BBC-and-Eurosport-bring-2012-Olympics-to-Virgin-Media-customers-239c.aspx|title=BBC and Eurosport bring 2012 Olympics to Virgin Media customers|publisher=Virgin Media|date=18 April 2012|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120420230257/http://mediacentre.virginmedia.com/Stories/BBC-and-Eurosport-bring-2012-Olympics-to-Virgin-Media-customers-239c.aspx|archive-date=20 April 2012|df=dmy-all}}</ref>

===UHD===
On 17 September 2018 Virgin Media launched a linear UHD channel. It broadcasts a mix of drama, documentaries and music to customers who have its premium V6 set-top box.<ref>[https://www.a516digital.com/2018/09/virgin-launches-linear-uhd-tv-channel.html Virgin launches linear UHD TV channel]</ref>

On 25 February 2021 UHD content from Sky appears following the launch on Virgin Media of Sky Entertainment and Sky Cinema Ultra HD. More than 1,300 TV episodes and 250 films are available from day one.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.virginmedia.com/corporate/media-centre/press-releases/extended-partnership-between-virgin-media-and-sky-to-bring-even-more-benefits-to-viewers-and-the-industry|title=Extended partnership between Virgin Media and Sky to bring even more benefits to viewers and the industry|website=Virgin Media}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.virginmedia.com/corporate/media-centre/press-releases/virgin-tv-adds-sky-shows-and-movies-in-ultra-high-definition1|title=Virgin TV adds Sky shows and movies in Ultra High Definition|website=Virgin Media}}</ref>

==See also==
*[[Sky (UK & Ireland)]]
*[[BT Vision]]

==External links==
*[https://www.virgintvgo.virginmedia.com Virgin TV Go]
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Archive:Types of gestures

2007-11-14T00:23:52Z

81.109.209.218: /* Hand over heart */

{{unreferenced||article|date=September 2006}}
Gestures are a form of [[Body language]] or [[Non-verbal communication]].
Although some [[gesture]]s, such as the ubiquitous act of [[Hand gesture|pointing]], differ little from one place to another, most gestures do not have invariable or universal meanings, having specific connotations only in certain cultures. Different types of gestures are distinguished. The most famous type of gestures are the so-called emblems or quotable gestures (see the examples below). These are [[culture]] specific gestures that can be used as replacement for words. Communities have repertoires of such gestures. A single emblematic gesture can have very different significance in different cultural contexts, ranging from complimentary to highly offensive.

Another type of gestures are the ones we use when we speak. These gestures are closely coordinated with speech. The meaningful part of the gesture is temporally synchronised with the co-expressive words. For example, a gesture that depicts the act of throwing will be synchronous with the word 'threw' in the utterance "and then he threw the ball right into the window." Other gestures like the so-called beat gestures, are used in conjunction with speech, keeping time with the rhythm of speech and to emphasize certain words or phrases. These types of gestures are integrally connected to speech and thought processes.

==Studies of gesture==
The first full-length study of gesture was published by [[John Bulwer]] in 1644. Bulwer analyzed dozens of gestures, and provided a guide on how to use gestures to increase eloquence and clarity for public speaking. Today, one of the most prominent researchers in the field of gesture research is [[Adam Kendon]]. He has investigated many aspects of gestures, including their role in communication, conventionalization of gesture, integration of gesture and speech, and the evolution of language. Other prominent researchers in this field include [[Susan Goldin-Meadow]] and [[David McNeill]].

==Social significance==
[[Image:VitarkaMudra.JPG|thumb|right|200px|Vitarka [[mudra]], [[Tarim Basin]], 9th century.]]

Gestures play a major role in many aspects of human life. Many animals, including humans, use gestures to initiate a [[Courtship|mating ritual]]. This may include elaborate [[dance]]s and other movements.

Religious and spiritual gestures are also common, such as the [[Christianity|Christian]] [[sign of the cross]]. In [[Hinduism]] and [[Buddhism]], a ''[[mudra]]'' ([[Sanskrit]], meaning either "posture" or "currency" depending on the interpretation) is a symbolic gesture made with the hand or fingers. Each mudra has a specific meaning, playing a central role in Hindu and Buddhist [[iconography]]. An example is the Vitarka mudra, the gesture of discussion and transmission of Buddhist teaching. It is done by joining the tips of the thumb and the index together, while keeping the other fingers straight.

==Using one hand==
{{main|Hand gesture}}
===Itching Under The Chin===
In Italian culture this represents "I don't care, I can't be bothered". This is done by keeping one hand straight, placing it under the chin, and 'throwing out' that hand toward the person receiving the gesture. In Italian American culture this represents "Screw You!"; U.S. Supreme Court justice [[Antonin Scalia]] received criticism for using this gesture towards a reporter.

Scratching or stroking the chin or beard (where possible) can be used to indicate that the gesticulater is thinking or puzzled.
In the UK, an "itchy chin" can be used to indicate that the person receiving the gesture is lying or talking nonsense, [[bullshit]], in other words. In the UK scratching the chin as a way of implying that the speaker is talking nonsense is often accompanied with any or all of the phrases "reck-on", "chinnus magnus" and "jimmy hill" in no particular order.

===Bang bang===
[[Image:gesture thumb up then down forefinger out like gun.jpg|thumb|right|200px|This gesture mimes a [[handgun]].]]

The "bang bang" gesture is performed by raising the fist with the index finger and thumb extended. The index finger points at the recipient. The thumb is then brought down on top of the fingers. This imitation of the action of a revolver [[pistol]] is often meant to represent a [[handgun]] in children's games. It may also be used menacingly to mean "I'm gonna kill you", or simply as a playful greeting. The middle finger is often also extended to widen the "barrel".

[[Texas Tech University|Texas Tech]] fans use the "bang bang" salute (fingers pointed upward) to cheer their team. Also, the "bang bang" performed with both hands was a signature gesture of [[professional wrestling|professional wrestler]] [[Mick Foley]] while he was in his "Cactus Jack" [[gimmick (professional wrestling)|persona]].

Also, if the thumb and middle finger are used to click, and the thumb the pointed upwards to form the gun, this can also be interpreted as a greeting.

A two-handed version of the same gesture can be used to indicate sporting/business success or sexual conquest (frequently accompanied by a syncopated "pow-pow", esp. in a posh British accent).

=== Beckoning sign ===
Index finger sticking out of the clenched fist, palm facing the gesturer. The finger moves repeatedly towards the gesturer (in a hook) as to draw something nearer. It has the general meaning of "come here", although it is normally seen as condescending or anyway impolite. It is sometimes performed with the four fingers, with the entire hand, or even with the arm, depending on how far the recipient of the sign is.

When performed with the index finger, it may have a mild sexual connotation depending on the circumstance.

In [[Africa]], the [[Far East]] and many [[Spanish language|Spanish]]-speaking countries, this sign is given with all four fingers and with the palm down.

In [[Japan]] there is a similar gesture, but the four fingers are used, the palm faces the recipient and the hand is at head's height. This is the gesture featured in the [[maneki neko]].

===Benediction and blessing===
[[Image:ConstantineCoin.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Benediction gesture, on a coin of [[Constantine I (emperor)|Emperor Constantine]].]]

The benediction gesture is a raised right hand with the ring and pinky fingers touching the palm, while the middle and index fingers remain raised. Taken from Ancient Roman iconography for speaking (an example is the Augustus of Prima Porta where the emperor Augustus assumes the pose of an orator in addressing his troops), it is used as a simple [[charm]] or [[blessing]] amongst many [[neopagan|modern]] [[Paganism|Pagans]], and has a vast array of uses. Perhaps the most common and/or noteworthy use of the gesture is while tracing an invisible "air [[pentagram]]" before someone during certain [[Wicca]]n rituals such as the [[Great Rite]] performed during [[Beltane]] and [[Drawing down the Moon (ritual)|Drawing Down the Moon]] on the [[Esbat]]s. One might also use the gesture to trace invisible pentagrams or other sigils over items to be blessed or empowered, such as [[holy water]], [[ritual]] [[wine]], ritual [[ale]], or [[cannabis|the Sacred Herb]]. The two extended fingers are used to point (except when an [[athame]], [[wand]], or [[sword]] is used).

A similar sign, called the ''benediction'' gesture, is used by the [[Christianity|Christian]] [[clergy]] to perform [[blessing]]s with the [[sign of the cross]]; however Christians keep the thumb raised - the three raised fingers (index, middle, and thumb) are frequently allegorically interpreted as representing the three Persons of the [[Holy Trinity]]. It was shown by representations of [[Jesus]] as [[Christ Pantocrator]].

===Blah-blah===
The fingers are kept straight and together in a horizontal fashion while the thumb is held out straight. The fingers and thumb then snap together repeatedly to suggest a mouth talking. It is used to indicate contempt for a person talking for an excessive period of time about nothing the gesturer feels is important.

===Check, please===
This gesture, understood by waiters around the world to mean that a dinner patron wishes to pay the bill and depart, is executed by touching the index finger and thumb together and "writing" a wavy line in the air, as if to sign one's name. An alternate gesture with the same meaning is made by touching the index finger and thumb together and drawing a [[Tick (checkmark)|checkmark]] ({{unicode|<big>✓</big>}}) in the air. In [[Egypt]], the left hand is held palm-out and the right, palm-down, is tapped against the left wrist to request the check. In [[Thailand]], one makes a circling gesture with the thumb and fingers pinched together- as if you are holding an imaginary pencil and making imaginary scribbles on a piece of paper. Sometimes the opposite palm is used as the 'paper'. In the [[Philippines]], one outlines a rectangle in the air using the thumb and forefinger of both hands.

===Clenched fist===
A raised, clenched fist is used as a gesture of defiance by a number of groups. It is usually considered to be hostile, yet without any sexual, scatological, or notionally offensive connotations. It is especially associated with [[Communism|Communists]] and with other nationalist or ethnic [[revolution]]ary or would-be revolutionary movements, and with the [[Black Power]] movements of the [[1960s]] in the United States. It is the custom to make this gesture while singing ''[[The Internationale]]'', the [[Marxism|Marxist]] anthem. A clenched fist raised quickly up and down and then punched in some direction also signifies a military call for a heavy weapons team to close on the gesturer or to move or open fire in the direction indicated by the punch. In US military, a closed right hand fist raised up with a straight arm with the finger side towards the receiver is an order for the person to stop immediately - to "freeze".<ref>[http://www.truthout.org/docs_2006/071007D.shtml Truthout.org]</ref>

: See also: [[With a strong hand and an outstretched arm]]

=== Pound fist ===
Pound fist is a greeting, in which two individuals touch fists.

=== Clinton thumb ===
The gesture dubbed the "Clinton thumb" after its most famous user, [[Bill Clinton]], is used by politicians to provide emphasis in speeches without pointing the finger. This gesture has the thumb leaning against the thumbside portion of the index finger, which is part of a closed fist. It does not exhibit the anger of the clenched fist or pointing finger, and so is thought to be less threatening. This gesture was likely adopted by Clinton from [[John F. Kennedy]], who can be seen using it in many speeches during his political career.{{Fact|date=February 2007}} It is often used in extemporaenous speech and debate, as a tool for emphasizing points.

===Crossed fingers===
{{main|Crossed fingers}}
A gesture made by crossing the index and middle fingers such that the middle finger overlaps and intertwines the index finger, which can be used to signify one's hope that something should succeed (compare to the phrase "Keep your fingers crossed."). According to OldSuperstitions.com, this stems from the [[superstition]] that "Bad luck is trapped at the point where the two fingers meet so when we cross our fingers, we stop the bad luck from escaping and allow our wishes to come true.". However, if placed behind one's back, the gesture takes on an entirely different meaning: it is then normally used to indicate that the user secretly wishes for something ''contrary'' to what is being stated or going on, or that a lie is being told. This usage is often seen in dramatic contexts.

===Cuckoo sign===
A gesture made by closing ones fist, extending the index finger, and circling it around ones ear for several seconds. This gesture is used to indicate that someone is speaking nonsense or is crazy (more colloquially, this is described as being [[cuckoo]]). The "cuckoo" sign is well-known in the United States.

===Fig sign===
[[Image:gesture fist with thumb through fingers.jpg|thumb|right|200px|The "fig sign" is an ancient gesture with many uses.]]

The "fig sign" is a gesture made with the hand and fingers curled and the thumb thrust between the middle and index fingers, or, rarely, the middle and ring fingers, forming the fist so that the thumb partly pokes out. In some areas of the world, the gesture is considered a good luck charm, in others it is considered an obscene gesture, and in still others it is used in the "I've got your nose!" child's game. This gesture is also the letter "T" in the [[American Sign Language alphabet]]. In [[International Sign]], which otherwise uses the same manual alphabet, "T" has been modified to avoid possible offense.

In [[ancient Rome]], this gesture was called the ''mano fico'', and was a fertility and good luck charm designed to ward off evil. Although this usage has survived in [[Brazil]], where carved images of hands in this gesture are used in good luck [[Amulet|talisman]]s, in many other cultures, such as Greece, Indonesia, Turkey, Cyprus and Russia, the sign has come to have an insulting meaning roughly equivalent to "screw you", based on the thumb being seen as representing a [[clitoris]] or [[sexual intercourse]]. In modern Russia this gesture is used mostly by kids with the meaning "screw you/no way". The same meaning is expressed by adults either with bent elbow (rude, very emphatic, non-classy), or with a "finger" (used mostly by city dwellers). The "finger" made it to Russian gesture language from Western movies. In modern [[Italian language|Italian]], the gesture is called the ''mano fica'', taken to mean "fig hand", as the Italian word for "[[fig]]" is ''fico'' (''ficus'' in [[Latin]]). The obscene connotations of the gesture may partly originate from the fact that a similar Italian word, ''fica'', is a slang term referring to the [[vulva]]. This sexual connotation may date back to ancient Roman times; some Roman amulets combine a ''[[phallus]]'' and a ''mano fico'' gesture. In [[Dante Alighieri|Dante]]'s ''[[Divine Comedy#Inferno|Inferno]]'', [[Vanni Fucci]] curses [[God]] with a "fig" gesture. [http://danteworlds.laits.utexas.edu/circle8b.html#vanni]

Also known as the [[Sicilian Fist]] in Sicily, worn as a good luck charm. * [http://www.italybyvip.com/1874.html Images of the "Sicilian Fist Charm" in Sicily]

The gesture is also used in a trick played by adults and parents, with the intention of convincing their child that his or her nose has been taken away. Someone, usually an adult, grabs at the child's nose and forms the fig sign, exclaiming, "I've got your nose, I've got your nose!" The thumb is supposed to be the child's removed nose.

Many [[neopaganism|neopagans]] use this gesture as a symbol of the [[mother goddess]] to help adherents identify one another. In this context, it is referred to as the "Sign of the Goddess". Its counterpart is the ''[[corna]]'' sign.

In [[The Gnostic Mass]] of [[Aleister Crowley]], this gesture is assumed by the priest throughout the Mass when his lance is not in his hand. It is a phallic device and symbolizes copulation, the fruit of which is a fig, traditionally appropriated to Jupiter the phallic sky god. The use of "the ficus" in the Gnostic Mass replaces the sign of benediction (mentioned above) used in Christian ceremonies.

===Finger Snap===
{{Unreferenced|date=September 2006}}
One of several gestures familiar to modern people primarily through old [[animated cartoons]], this gesture generally expresses a confident "screw you!" in the face of an adversary. The gesturer holds one hand out, palm up, in the direction of his antagonist and snaps his thumb and middle finger, generally accompanied by a high-nosed, "snooty" facial expression and followed by crossing the arms.

In some countries, particularly Great Britain, snapping the fingers is used to signify remembering or failing to remember. Snapping the fingers repeatedly at a constant rate is commonly used to signify that the person has forgotten something and is trying to recall it. This is often done with the fingers snapped close to the temple, as though literally 'jogging the memory,' and is associated with the phrase 'it's on the tip of my tongue.'

A single snap, sometimes emphasized by an arced swing of the arm, is used when someone is reminded of something by another person, particularly if it is a job or a chore they have forgotten to do, or as a sign of disappointment or regret. Some people also snap their fingers to catch the attention of others. This is informal - some people may find it rude or even threatening, as it is common for the gesturer to snap his fingers very close to the other's face. In some cases, this may be interpreted as a face-threatening act or a sign of contempt.

==="Hanging"===
This gesture is performed by holding a clenched fist at the side of the head, tilting one's head away from one's fist, and making a choking sound. It may also be accompanied by hanging the tongue loosely out of one's mouth, and rolling of the eyes back into the head. It is generally used to signify "what I would rather be doing". It can also be used to show suicide.

===Horns===
{{main|Corna}}
[[Image:gesture raised fist with index and pinky lifted.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Corna]]

Many [[neopaganism|neopagans]] use it as a symbol of the [[horned god]] to identify each other; in this context it is referred to as the "Sign of the Horned God". Its counterpart is the ''fig sign'', above.

Some say that it is meant to ward off — or to bestow — the [[evil eye]]. It is also a representation of the [[Devil]] by some [[Satanist]]s. The gesture's origin is believed to be an imitation of the shape of a goats head, which has many associations with the concept of Satan in [[Christianity]] [http://www.keyway.ca/htm2001/20010924.htm Satan's Goat]

It has a variety of other meanings as well, depending on culture and area. In some places, it is a sexual insult, charging a man with being a victim of [[adultery|cuckoldry]] (this insult is most common in [[Spain]] and [[Italy]] but is also used in Brazil). Perhaps because of its [[occult]] significance, it is used as a salute by fans of [[Devil horns#Heavy metal|heavy metal music]]. If one reverses the extended fingers, one gets the "inverted heavy metal salute" which can be given as a reply to a heavy metal salute. In this case, the sign is known as "devil horns".

Also a common hand gesture used by the University of Texas at Austin. The sign is also usually accompanied by the slogan "Hook 'Em Horns." The gesture is said to look like a head of a Longhorn, the University's mascot.
To [[Chaote]]s practicing [[Lovecraftian magick]], it is called the "Sign of Voor" or the "Voorish Sign".

===Kodály Hand Signs===
Named after [[Zoltán Kodály]], and largely defined by [[John Curwen]], Kodály Hand Signs are a way of representing musical notes by holding the hand in a certain position for each note. The basic concept of using gestures to represent notes is quite ancient, however near the end of the 19th century, the concept was formalized as a standard teaching method. Kodály Hand Signs are featured in the [[1977]] film [[Close Encounters of the Third Kind]].

===Knocking on wood===
{{main|touch wood}}
This signifies the neutralization of a [[jinx]]ing brought on by mentioning an either hoped-for or feared result. The knuckles are rapped on a nearby piece of wood (or, jokingly, someone's head). Usually this is only valid if done on bare (i.e. unpainted) wood. One possible reason for the tradition could have been from an [[animist]] culture who believed that the knocking would release spirits to protect them. It has also been said to stem from a belief that any nearby evil spirits who overhear somebody speaking of good fortune which has come his way may send some bad luck to offset it; knocking on wood was thought to keep the spirits from hearing. It is also known as "tapping wood" or "touching wood".

In Italy, one knocks on iron with the hand in the ''[[corna]]'' horns position.

===Middle finger===
{{main|The finger}}
[[Image:Middle finger.JPG|thumb|right|200px|"[[The finger]]" is a very common offensive hand gesture.]]
"The finger" is a gesture consisting of a fist with the middle finger extended. It appears to be universally understood as "[[fuck|fuck you]]"or get stuffed due to its resemblance to the penis. It is certainly thousands of years old, being referred to in Ancient Roman literature as the ''digitus infamis'' or ''digitus impudicus''. Performing this gesture is also called "flipping the bird" in countries where "the finger" is used. In other regions, "flipping the bird" refers to the raising of the middle and index finger with the back of the hand directed at the recipient. It can also mean "Victor" (see ''[[#V Sign|V Sign]]'', below) in some countries, which is not to be mistaken for the "Peace" gesture, which is done with the palm facing the recipient of the gesture, but in Britain and some other countries it is an offensive gesture, equivalent to "the finger". [[George W. Bush]] can be seen making the gesture while he was the Governor of Texas, while goofing off before beginning filming of a public address.<ref>[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o9Do-s1cdPk Bush "One-fingered Victory Salute" Video] </ref>

Former [[professional wrestler]] [[Stone Cold Steve Austin]] used the finger quite frequently in [[World Wrestling Entertainment|WWE]] shows. He raises both of the fingers to the crowd as a way of saluting to them. Also, he gestures the finger at his opponent before kicking them in the stomach and performing the [[Stone Cold Stunner]].

Comedian [[Dane Cook]] parodied the gesture with his "Super Finger" gesture, which consists of raising the middle finger, ring finger, and thumb on the same hand while lowering (or curling) the pointer and pinky finger. It is meant to be a more "powerful" version of "the finger".

The middle finger is also used to represent the number four when one counts in the binary system using one's fingers.<ref>[http://www.intuitor.com/counting/]</ref>

When this gesture is made with the palm facing forward, it is known to [[Chaote]]s practicing [[Lovecraftian magick]] as the "Sign of Kish". Another Lovecraftian sign is the "Sign of Koth", which consists of fully extending the index finger, middle finger, ring finger, and pinky, while the thumb is tucked against the flat of the hand.

=== Money sign ===
The thumb rubs repeatedly over the tip of the index finger and middle fingers. The ring finger and pinky touch the palm. This gesture is meant to resemble the act of rubbing two coins together (alternatively the act of counting paper bills) and has a general meaning of "money", or "expensive".

===OK===
{{main|Okay}}

This is the touching of the index and middle finger (or just index finger) with the thumb (forming a rough circle) with the raising of the remaining fingers. In the United States and most of Europe, it means "OK" and is inoffensive. The OK sign is used extensively in [[scuba diving]]. It can also mean "[[0 (number)|0]]," or "[[money]]," in [[Japan]].
However, in Germany, it is often seen on the Autobahn, as a silent way of calling someone an "Asshole" (with the fingers extended horizontally). Similar vulgar meanings are found in other countries, but usually you have to turn the 'Ring' upside down (supinated to show the ring in front) like this example from [http://jeroenarendsen.nl/2006/05/butthole-is-not-ok.html Brazil]. It is then a sexual or scatological gesture referring to the [[anus]]

===Pointing===
The typical pointing with the [[index finger]] is a universal gesture. There are many other ways to point, for example with the hand, a head nod or an eye gaze. In many cases pointing at a person is considered rude. A more polite way of pointing to a person would be to to direct the hand in their direction, as if holding a plate. You may point towards yourself to draw attention, and this behavior is seen commonly in [[monkeys]].

===Moutza (Palm of hand)===
{{main|Moutza}}
In most places, a palm raised towards somebody means "stop".

In [[Greece]], the palm of the hand thrust towards somebody with the fingers splayed is an offensive gesture equivalent to giving the finger. The gesture is known in Greek as "moutza". It originates from the Byzantine punishment of parading a chained criminal around town with his face smeared with [[cinder]], or ''moutzos'' in Greek. An even more offensive version is achieved by using both hands to double the gesture, and smacking the palm of one hand against the back of the other, in the direction of the intended recipient. Both the one-handed and the two-handed versions of this gesture can be (and often are) combined with the term "''na''!", meaning "here you go!" or "there!", or "''na, malaka''!", meaning "there, you wanker!"

===Salute===
{{main|Salute}}
There are many forms of [[salute]] gestures, most of which are used to denote respect or obedience for an authority. A common [[military]] hand salute consists of raising the right hand, held flat, to the right eyebrow. [[Scouting]] organizations use related salutes. The armies of various countries adopt slightly different forms of salute: in the United States, the military salute places the hand directed outward over the eyebrow, like a visor; in the United Kingdom armed forces, the hand is brought to the forehead palm outward in military and air force contexts, whereas the naval salute is as in the US forces - the US forces derived their saluting habits from the [[Royal Navy]].

One of the most infamous forms of salute is the "[[Hitler salute]]", which is performed by extending the whole right arm, palm outstretched and facing down, upwards into the air at approximately a 45 degree angle from the ground. Sometimes, this is accompanied by holding the index and middle fingers under the nose, representing Hitler's iconic moustache. This gesture is associated with [[Nazism]] and its leader, [[Adolf Hitler]], as well as with [[Germany]] during [[World War II]]. It is occasionally performed to mock someone or something for perceived [[authoritarianism]] or [[bigotry]]. This gesture was based on the [[Roman salute]], and it was in that capacity that it was revived by [[Tennis Court Oath|French Revolutionaries]] and later by [[Benito Mussolini]]'s [[Fascism|Fascist]] party.

In some countries, mostly in Europe, it is forbidden by law to perform this gesture, although this does not deter [[Neo-Nazism|Neo-Nazis]] and white supremacists from using the gesture in public rallies. Even in other countries, it is generally considered taboo to use the gesture, and this partly caused the [[United States]] to abandon the similar [[Bellamy salute]] used when reciting the [[Pledge of Allegiance]], in favor of the current hand-on-heart gesture.

===Shaka===
{{main|Shaka sign}}
[[Image:gesture raised fist with thumb and pinky lifted.jpg|thumb|right|200px|The "[[shaka sign|shaka]]" sign is a common greeting in beach and surfer culture.]]

The "shaka" sign is a common greeting gesture often associated with [[Hawaii]], [[California]], and [[beach]] and [[surfing|surfer]] culture in general. It consists of extending the thumb and pinky finger while keeping the three middle fingers curled, and is often described colloquially as the "hang loose"or "chilax" gesture. It is similar to [[American Sign Language]] letter "''Y''", where a fist is also made with only the thumb and pinky extended. The sign is often followed by waving as a greeting or acknowledgment. It can be used when driving as a signal of thanks to other drivers (for example, someone who stopped to let another driver onto the road from a driveway).

The "shaka" sign is also the greeting gesture for members of [[Alpha Phi Alpha]] Fraternity, Inc. which is the "phi" sign. All African-American Greek fraternities and sororities have hand greeting gestures.
====Similar gestures====

In Britain and Northern Europe the symbol is used as a signal for owners of older model [[Volkswagen]] vans when passing on roads. The silhouette of the hand reveals a "W"-shaped outline along the top of the hand standing for Volkswagen.

In Spain and Italy, if the thumb points to the mouth, it means "drinking", since it is similar the shape of a ''[[porrón]]'' vessel. This is also true of the [[United States]], [[Portugal]] and [[Brazil]].

In some countries, if the thumb points to the mouth, it can also represent [[marijuana]] usage, in particular the use of a [[bong]]. This is usually accompanied by a sucking noise.

In China, it is also the sign for the number six.

A similar gesture is the "call me" sign, which also has the pinky finger and thumb outstretched, but then also holds it up to the ear, to signify a telephone. This gesture is a common way to silently tell someone to call him or her, such as to continue a conversation in private.

It is also used by [[FC Barcelona]] player [[Ronaldinho]] as part of his goal celebration.

In India, rolling the shaka in a winding motion signifies that the listener does not believe what is being said and that the speaker needs to "spool in the yarn from spinning out too far".

In [[American Sign Language]], a "rolling" version of this sign indicates the activity "play", often used by non-verbal (i.e. pre-speech children) people to ask if one wants to play or that they signer wishes to play.

==="Thanks!" Salute===
Another gesture familiar from vintage cartoons, this is performed by sweeping an opened hand from near one's brow toward the person being addressed, and expresses gratitude. It is adapted from [[American Sign Language]], and alludes to tipping your hat or cap.

===Three middle fingers===
Gestures consisting of fully extending the index, middle, and ring fingers with the thumb and pinky tucked together under the palm have had a variety of meanings over the years.

The gesture was also used by [[Bosnian Croat]]s as a victory sign, representing the Christian [[Trinity]], during the [[Bosnian War]]. To [[Chaote]]s practicing [[Lovecraftian magick]], this gesture is known as the "Sign of the Elders." With the palm facing outwards, the fingers closed (without gaps), the right hand's fingertips to the same-side temple, it is used by the [[scouting|Boy scouts]] as their identifying [[salute]].

In the United States, when the back of the hand faces outwards, this gesture is often used as a [[euphemism]] for "[[#middle finger|the finger]]." It is used especially when a jocular effect is desired. Originally, an accompanying verbal explanation was usual — "Read [[subtext|between the lines]]," referring to the common English expression denoting that one must read carefully to glean the subtle meaning in a passage — but this phrase is now commonly omitted.

===Thumbs up, thumbs down===

A closed fist held with the thumb extended upward or downward is a gesture of approval or disapproval respectively. These gestures have become metaphors in English: ''"My boss gave my proposal the thumbs-up"'' means that the boss approved the proposal, regardless of whether the gesture was made — indeed, the gesture itself is unlikely in a business setting.

The source of the gesture is obscure. Though a favorite of Hollywood '[[sword and sandal|swords and sandals]]' epics, where the "thumbs down" symbol means that the loser in a gladiatorial combat should be put to death, recent research suggests the meanings of the symbols have changed over the years. In [[1997]], Professor [[Anthony Philip Corbeill]] of the [[University of Kansas]] concluded that the thumbs up actually meant "Kill him," basing his assertion on a study of hundreds of ancient artworks. Thus, the "thumbs up" was an approval of the gladiator's request to kill his vanquished foe rather than a vote to allow the defeated to remain alive. Corbeill wrote that a closed fist with a wraparound thumb was the indication for a gladiator's life to be spared.

[[Image:Jean-Leon Gerome Pollice Verso.jpg|thumb|right|200px|''Pollice Verso'' by Jean-Léon Gérôme, [[1872]] is the immediate source of the "thumbs down" gesture in [[popular culture]].]]

In [[Latin]], the "thumbs up" gesture is called ''pollice recto'', "thumbs down" is ''pollice verso''. It is not certain that the contemporary gestures are identical to the gestures performed in [[ancient Rome]]. The current version was popularized by a widely reproduced [[academic art|academic painting]] by the [[19th century]] artist [[Jean-Léon Gérôme]], whose ''Pollice Verso'' depicts a triumphant gladiator standing over a fallen foe, looking up into the [[bleacher]]s for the verdict of the crowd.

Additionally, [[Desmond Morris]]' ''Gestures: Their Origins and Distribution'' traces the practice back to a [[medieval]] custom used to seal business transactions... Over time, the mere sight of an upraised thumb came to symbolize harmony and kind feelings... The gesture's popularization in America is generally attributed to the practices of World War II pilots, who used the thumbs up to communicate with ground crews prior to take-off. American GIs are reputed to have picked up on the thumb and spread it throughout Europe as they marched toward Berlin." [http://slate.msn.com/id/2080812/]

More recently, these gestures are associated with [[film|movie]] [[review]]s, having been popularized by [[Gene Siskel]] and [[Roger Ebert]] in their televised reviews — the thumb up meaning a positive opinion of a film; the thumb down meaning a negative one. One or two thumbs up, often held over the head, may also be used by athletes in celebration of a victory.

"'Thumbs up' traditionally translates as the foulest of Middle-Eastern gesticular insults — the most straightforward interpretation is 'Up yours, pal!' The sign has a similarly pejorative meaning in parts of West Africa, South America, Russia, Iran, Greece, and Sardinia, according to Roger E. Axtell's book ''Gestures: The Do's and Taboos of Body Language Around the World''."[http://slate.msn.com/id/2080812/]

[[Hitchhiker]]s traditionally use a thumbs up gesture to solicit rides from oncoming vehicles, although in this presentation the arm is generally outstretched with the palm and closed fingers facing the motorist. People who have the genetic ability to bend the tip of their thumb backwards are said to have "hitchhiker's thumb," which is a reference to the original gesture.

Additionally, supporters of [[Texas A&M University]] athletic teams use the thumbs-up sign, associated with the cheer, "Gig 'em, Aggies." The Thumb refers to a "gig" used for hunting frogs. The saying came when the Aggies had a big rival in the Southwest Conference in the TCU Horned Frogs.

Thumbs up and thumbs down are extensively used in scuba diving as commands to ascend or descend.

[[World Wrestling Entertainment|WWE]] Superstar [[Dave Bautista|Batista]] uses this gesture to signify his finisher, the [[Batista Bomb]].

=== Tsk-tsk ===
Palm towards the recipient, all fingers closed except for the index, which alternates from left to right, like a [[metronome]]. In English-speaking countries it has a disapproving meaning and can be accompanied by a "[[tsk|tsk-tsk]]" sound. This is also known as "finger-wagging".

In Italy and Brazil it simply means "no", and does not have any patronizing connotation.

===V sign===
[[Image:Nixon-depart.png|thumb|right|200px|[[Richard Nixon]] gives the V-sign one last time after resigning from the presidency.]]
{{main|V sign}}

The "V sign" is made by lifting the middle and index finger with the palm of the hand facing the recipient (and the remaining fingers clenched). It was associated with the [[catchphrase]] ''"V" for Victory'' in [[World War II]]. In the [[1960s]], it came to be known as the "[[peace]] sign," the gestural equivalent of the [[peace symbol]]. It was associated with British prime minister [[Winston Churchill]] during World War II, and later, with U.S. president [[Richard Nixon]]. It is also the sign for the letter V in [[American Sign Language]].

This sign is frequently used by the Japanese, most times holding up 2 "V" signs very close to either side of their face with a big grin during pictures.

In the UK, Australia, and some other countries, reversing the V sign so that the back of the hand facing the recipient is seen as the equivalent of giving [[finger (gesture)|the finger]]. Popular myth supposes it was originally a taunt by English Longbow Archers towards the French who were known to cut off an English Archer's first and middle fingers if captured.

Additionally, due to its use in an advertisement for the Australian made Valiant Charger (which ceased production around 1980) many people still display the V sign, in homage to the ad, and the car, if that vehicle happens to be driven past. Hardly an every day occurrence, but of some trivial interest.

===Vulcan salute===
{{main|Vulcan salute}}

The Vulcan salute consists of a raised hand, palm outward, fingers extended, with the index and middle finger kept close together, and the ring and pinky finger close together, with a "V" shaped space between them, and the thumb sticking out alone.

This gesture is associated with the phrase "Live long and prosper", and derives from ''[[Star Trek]]'', where it is used as a salute by fictional humanoid species the [[Vulcan (Star Trek)|Vulcans]].

It was introduced by [[Leonard Nimoy]] in his character of [[Mr. Spock]] and is drawn directly from the benedictory gesture made with both hands by a [[Kohen]] (priest in Judaism, a descendant of Aaron) during the [[Priestly Blessing]] ([[Hebrew language|Hebrew]]: ''Birkat Kohanim''). The [[Kohen|Kohanim]] recite a blessing while performing this "gesture" and the other congregants respond with [[Amen]]s.

This gesture is also known as the "Spocker" in allusion to [[Shocker (hand gesture)|the Shocker]].

===Wanker===
[[Image:Fingers and thumb in circle downward motion.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Wanker]]
A loose fist (with all fingers forming a cylindrical shape) is made, and shaken up and down (or sometimes, back and forth) at the wrist.

The gesture is imitative of the motions of male [[masturbation]]. Its meaning is equivalent to the word [[wanker]] or implies something is of little importance. If directed to a person or group, who are not necessarily present, it is considered a display of contempt toward them.

The name for this gesture is described by speakers of [[American English]] as a [[Britishism]].

[[Image:Portugal Wanker Gesture.jpg|thumb|right|200px|The Overhand Portuguese Wanker Gesture]]

In [[Portugal]] they use the wanker gesture but with the palm facing the ground thereby implying that the person is masturbating someone else rather than themselves. As such this has [[homosexual]] or promiscuous implications when directed at someone instead of the milder suggestion that they enjoy self-gratification.

===Wave===
A wave is a gesture in which the hand is raised and moved back and forth, as a [[greeting]] or sign of departure. The orientation of the hand varies by culture and situation. In many cultures, the palm is oriented toward the recipient of the wave.

In Chinese culture, orienting the hand palm-down and waving it up and down signifies "come here", rather than a greeting. 

===Whoop-Dee-Doo===
Point the index finger up and rotate it. This is a usually used as a response gesture to indicate something is uninteresting or irrelavent. Similar to saying a sarcastic "Whoop-Dee-Doo" or "Big deal".

==Using two hands==
{{main|Hand gesture}}
===Awkward Turtle===
The Awkward Turtle is a gesture made after something awkward just happened, or when there is an awkward silence.
To perform an awkward turtle there are three steps to take. First, place hands on top of each other. Next, move thumbs out and away from the hands. Finally, rotate the thumbs.

Nowadays the gesture is used in the United States to hush children, or to calm participants in a heated argument. In [[Japan]], the same gesture may be used to request the check when dining at a restaurant (see also [[#Check, please|Check, please]], above).

==="Gills"===
This gesture involves holding the backs of the wrists against the jawline (with elbows outstretched) and then waggling one's fingers. The gesture is often accompanied by a feminine-voiced "Ooooo!" which rises and falls in intonation. It is used when one would normally say (sarcastically) "well aren't you clever?", or to imply that someone is acting too posh for their station. It is peculiar to Scotland owing to its use in Scottish TV sketch show [[Chewin the Fat]].

==="Shame on you"===
This gesture involves pointing at a person with the index finger of one hand while rubbing the pointed finger with the index finger of the opposite hand. The rubbing motion is directed toward the intended recipient and is repeated at least three times. It is used to imply that the targeted person should feel shame.

===Time-out===
The "time-out" gesture — a "T" formed with the hands, with one hand with flat palm placed perpendicular to the other hand with flat palm, roughly in the center — originates in American sports. It was, and is, used where a brief [[sport time-out|pause in play]] is called for, such as to make substitutions. In [[basketball]], the gesture is used to indicate that a player or coach is guilty of a [[technical foul]].

===Whatever!===
A gesture associated with [[Valley Girl]]s. Forming the letter "W" by extending the two index fingers upward and touching the thumbs together at a 45 degree angle, this hand sign is used silently or in conjunction with an uttered "Whatever!" (pronounced with a slight pause after the first syllable, emphasis on the second, and drawing out the third syllable to a hard "r"). It is a sarcastic response dismissing whatever has just been said to the person making the gesture.

==Hand with body gestures==
{{Mergeto|Hand gestures|Talk page|date=April 2007}}
===Bent elbow===

This is performed in two parts: first, the right hand is placed in the elbow crook of the left arm. The left arm is then raised (fist clenched) at the victim in a smooth and continuous motion. While the motion is essential to the gesture, the choice of arm is not. This gesture is associated with [[Italy|Italians]] and is considered a more theatrical and physically exuberant version of the [[finger (gesture)|finger]], and may even be combined with the finger. In Italian it is known as the ''gesto dell'ombrello'', meaning literally "the umbrella gesture." It is typically used in two different situations: 1) to answer "no way!" in an extremely emphatic (and quite vulgar) way; 2) after a triumph against some unfair enemy, with a sense of revenge. The gesture is frequently made stronger by crying "toh!" or "tiè!", both meaning "take this!", at the precise moment the hand touches the crook of the elbow.

This gesture is also in use in [[France]] as ''bras d'honneur'' (arm of honour), where it is usually understood as ''va te faire foutre'', still meaning "fuck off." In [[Spain]] and [[Portugal]], it is a ''corte de mangas'' ("[[sleeve]] cut") or a ''manguito'' (a cover formerly worn by public services bureaucratic workers on the arms to protect one's sleeves from ink splatters) respectively and is done with the left hand on the right elbow, without the continuous motion. In [[Portugal]], the iconic fictional character [[Zé Povinho]], created by [[Bordalo Pinheiro]], is usually depicted performing this gesture. This gesture, known as ''banana'', was also once used in Brazil with the meaning of "fuck you", but it has not been used since the middle of the 90's.

The gesture is sometimes used repetitively by fans at [[Citizens Bank Park]] in [[Philadelphia]] when the [[Phillies]] face the [[Atlanta Braves]] as a [[parody]] of the Braves' [[tomahawk chop]], and this usage is known as the "[[South Philly]] tomahawk chop" due to the gritty reputation of [[Philadelphia]] sports fans.

The gesture above has long been known in Slavic countries and Greece in the above senses plus "fuck you", without any standard name. In [[Poland]] its name has been standardized to "Kozakiewicz's gesture", after Polish [[pole vault]] jumper [[Władysław Kozakiewicz]], who had shown this gesture to the jeering Russian public during the [[1980 Summer Olympics]] in [[Moscow]].

===Biting one's thumb===
[[Image:Sampson bites his thumb.JPG|left|200px|thumb|How NOT to bite your thumb{{deletable image-caption}}]]
[[Image:Abram catches Sampson biting his thumb.JPG|right|200px|thumb|Abram catches Sampson biting his thumb]]
[[Biting one's thumb]] was an old rude British gesture. It is comparable to "[[#middle finger|the Finger]]" in modern terms. In [[William Shakespeare]]'s play ''[[Romeo and Juliet]]'', Sampson bites his thumb at the Montagues (Act 1, Scene 1).

The gesture does not literally involve biting the thumb. The fingernail of a thumb is placed behind the upper teeth, with the thumb thus pointing upwards, and the thumb is then bent forwards, the fingernail making a clicking sound as it flicks past the teeth.

An equivalent gesture still persists in [[Italy]].

=== Biting one's hand ===
In Sicily, biting one's flat hand or fist is a powerful threat.

===Bowing, kneeling, kowtowing===
A [[bowing (social)|bow]] is a gesture of respect involving lowering the head, usually performed by a social inferior to a social superior. Various cultures have different degrees or ways of performing the bow; [[China]] and [[Japan]] are particularly associated with elaborate and formal bowing. Bowing is also done by many groups as a ritual associated with [[prayer]]. In the Western world, women [[curtsey]] rather than bow. [[Kneel]]ing and "[[kowtow]]ing" are more extreme or elaborate forms of self-abasement before a social superior.

===Choking sign===
[[Image:Chokinggesture.JPG|200px|thumb|right|The "Choking" sign]]
The standard gesture to indicate that one is [[choking]] is to hold the throat with both hands as if strangling oneself. This is recognized as a request for immediate [[first aid]] for choking. It is promoted as a way to prevent onlookers from confusing the victim's distress with some other problem, such as a [[myocardial infarction|heart attack]], when the person cannot speak. The gesture is sometimes used metaphorically to refer to someone or something "choking" in the slang sense of failing at something while under pressure, for instance at an athletic event.

===Crossing oneself===
{{main|Sign of the cross}}
The "[[sign of the cross|sign of the Cross]]" is the use of the right hand to touch the forehead, chest, left shoulder, and right shoulder, consecutively. It represents the [[Christian cross]]. (Roman Catholics crossing themselves touch the forehead, chest, left shoulder, then right shoulder; Byzantine (Eastern) Catholics and Eastern Orthodox Christians touch the right shoulder before the left, with the thumb and first two fingers joined — symbolizing the Trinity — and the tips of the last two fingers touching the palm, symbolizing the dual nature of Christ in one being. )

This gesture is used by [[Roman Catholic]]s, [[Eastern Orthodox Church|Orthodox Christians]], and some other Christian groups in [[prayer]]s, to perform blessings, and as a salute before entering a [[church]] or similar place of religious significance. It is also used in various kinds of Christian [[folk religion]] to avert [[evil]] or [[bad luck]].

===Cutthroat===
[[Image:Cutthroatgesture.JPG|200px|thumb|right|The "Cutthroat" sign]]
This gesture is performed by drawing the hand, or a finger or two, across the throat. It represents slitting the throat with a knife, and means that the gesturer or someone else is metaphorically being killed. It is rarely if ever used literally to refer to death, though it is occasionally used as a theatrical threat ("I'm going to kill you"). In these contexts, it is sometimes accompanied by a harsh "kkkkkch" sound.

This gesture can also mean to "cut," "stop," or to discontinue a particular action. It can also be used to indicate something has ended or a previous process has concluded. [[Scuba diving|Scuba]] divers use this gesture with the palm swept across the throat to indicate that they have run out of air. Airport ground personnel also use this gesture to indicate a variety of things (due to the loud environment), such as baggage offload has completed or the last of the passengers have disembarked. In this context, it can be understood to mean: "That's it."

Also used by movie personnel when having to signal a cessation of activity under silent conditions.

Additionally, [[World Wrestling Entertainment|WWE]] Superstar [[The Undertaker]] uses this gesture to signify his signature moves, the [[Chokeslam]], [[Powerbomb#Elevated powerbomb|Last Ride]], and [[Piledriver (professional wrestling)#Tombstone piledriver|Tombstone piledriver]], as did [[Chris Benoit]] until his recent death.

=== Drinking sign ===
In UK, the gesture for drinking (used for example as an invitation to "go down the [[pub]]") is made by putting the back of the thumb just below the lower lip, while the other fingers are close together as if holding an imaginary [[pint]] of beer, tipping it repeatedly. This gesture can also be used to imply that somebody is drunk, either literally or insultingly.
In other countries, the shaka sign is used in a similar way, as described above.

===Flipping the fingers out from under the chin===

A [http://news.bostonherald.com/localRegional/view.bg?articleid=132932 traditional Sicilian gesture] analogous in meaning to the raised middle finger. This gesture became the center of a controversy in March of 2006, when [[U.S. Supreme Court|Supreme Court]] [[Associate Justice]] [[Antonin Scalia]] was photographed allegedly making the gesture to illustrate his response to his critics. Scalia later claimed that he used a different gesture, waving his fingers beneath his chin, a gesture translating to "I couldn't care less."
===Forehead Clunk===
This gesture indicates stupidity, usually a minor and immediately recognized slip of logic, judgment, or speech; and is performed by striking the forehead with the heel of the hand.

=== Hand over heart ===
This gesture involves placing one's right hand, palm outstretched and facing in, over one's heart. Male [[hat]] or cap wearers typically remove their hats and hold them in this hand. In some cultures, it is used as a gesture of respect towards [[flag]]s or during singing of a [[national anthem]]. In the United States, it is also performed as a part of the rituals of the [[Pledge of Allegiance]]. It can also be used to indicate sincerity, shock, or hurt; in which case, a balled hand has the same meaning.

===Loser===
This gesture is performed by raising the index finger and thumb of your right hand perpendicular to each other so that they form the letter "L". It is then placed onto one's forehead. It signifies that the person to whom this gesture is directed is a loser.
However, when the opposite hand is used, the gesture becomes highly ironic.

===My eye===

In France, Germany, and other parts of Europe{{Fact|date=September 2007}} it is common to point your index finger at your eye and even pull the skin under the eye lightly down to emphasize the presenting of the eye. The gesture displays disbelief or that a certain statement is made jokingly, similar to winking in American culture.

In Japan, tugging at the eye, often accompanied by sticking out one's tongue, is used as a childishly offensive gesture, or to indicate boredom.

In Italy, Portugal, Brazil and all Spanish-speaking nations it means "watch out" (POR, ITA:''occhio!'',SPA:''¡ojo!''), and is used for warning or threatening.

In Denmark it can be a joking threat, often accompanied by the phrase: "Because the eyes are what you takes care for the most".

===Nonsense===
Performed by waving the palm of your hand in front of your face, it may be used to tell the other person that an idea he or she had was nonsense.

In [[Portugal]], this gesture usually means the person being referred to missed an extremely obvious detail.

===Nose thumbing ===
For this gesture, also known as "cocking a snoot", "giving the five-finger salute", "cocking a snook", or Queen Anne's Fan, the thumb is placed on the tip of the nose, with the remaining fingers of the hand extended and waggled freely. This gesture can be ended with a dramatic flicking of the thumb away from the end of the nose and towards the recipient. It is used in (gentle) mockery of someone. It dates back to at least the 18th century and is probably much older.

To add emphasis, the gesture can be made using both hands, connecting them by touching the little finger of the first hand with the thumb of the second, and waggling the remaining seven fingers. It is frequently accompanied by [[blowing a raspberry]], or by sticking out the tongue.

===Over the Head===
A hand is extended and passed over the head with the palm facing the head. This is often accompanied with a whooshing sound or an exclamation of "Over your head!". This indicates that the receiver has failed to comprehend or notice something obvious.

===Screwing The Forehead===
A finger is placed against the temple, as if pointing at it, and a screwing motion, as if making a dimple, is made by twisting the wrist. In Italian culture, this indicates that the person referred to is "crazy" or "nuts."

===Suck my dick===
This gesture is performed by crossing the outstretched arms across the thighs, putting emphasis on the [[groin]]. This was used by popular professional wrestling [[stable (wrestling)|stable]], [[D-Generation X]].

There is a variation to this where a fist is made and shook near the mouth while bulging ones tongue against their cheeks to mimic fellatio.

===The Turkish Fig===
In [[Turkey]] and [[Greece]], putting the thumb between the middle and index finger of the right hand and making a fist is called "the fig" and is extremely offensive. In Turkey, taking that fist, placing it in the left hand and then pushing it out to make a slapping sound with the wrist of the right hand is even more offensive, and is usually accompanied by a string of obscenities. These gestures are often seen at soccer games.

===Touched / screw loose===
Tapping one's index finger against the head indicates that a person or an idea being discussed is insane or "touched in the head". A similar, more elaborate gesture uses a circling motion of the finger at the temple or side of the head. This signifies that the person is "mixed up" or "has a screw loose". In Germany, tapping or pointing to the temple is used as an insult, often with the accompanying phrase "du hast einen Vogel." While this literally means "You have a bird," it is idiomatic for saying that you are insane. Also, in Indonesia, drawing a line across the forehead with the side of the right index finger denotes a similar meaning.

A variant of this one is the suicide. Make a gun with your hand and pretend to shoot point blank at your own temple. It can be accompanied with sticking out the tongue or a shooting sound for full effect, and often implies that the speaker is a "complete idiot". A more recent use of this is in the movie, "40-Year Old Virgin" where one of the characters, after being bored with a conversation, proceeds to aim at his temple and pretend to fire. Afterwards, he uses his other hand and does a reverse cupping motion outward from the other side of his head to signify his brains splattering out.

In Japan, a variation of this is knocking on the temple with the knuckle of the index finger. This is usually used in reference to the signer; "I'm such an idiot!"

===Twisting The Cheek===
Thumb and forefinger are placed against the cheek, and a screwing motion, as if making a dimple, is made by twisting the wrist. In Italian culture, this can mean "I see a pretty girl" or, just generally mean "Wow!"

==="Wiping" one's forehead===
The act of wiping one's own forehead, regardless of whether sweat has actually formed there, is a sign indicating many things such as "That was close" or "What a relief". It can also be used to express relief after some hard work, or to express feeling hot.

==Body and facial gestures==
{{further|[[Facial expression]]}}
[[Image:Eyeroll.JPG|thumb|right|200px|Rolling one's eyes can express exasperation or condescension.]]

Many gestures utilize only the face or body, without the hands.

===Eye-rolling===
Performed by rotating the eyes upward, it indicates condescension, contempt, boredom, or exasperation. This is often referred to as "rolling ones eyes to Heaven," as though wishing for a divine intervention for a rescue from boredom, frustration, etc.

===Mooning===
[[Mooning]] is the act of displaying one's [[nudity|bare]] [[buttocks]] by lowering the back side of one's [[trousers]] and [[underpants]], usually without exposing the [[genitals]]. Mooning is used in some cultures to express protest, scorn, disrespect, or provocation. It can also be done for [[shock value]] or fun.

===The "peacock"===
Expresses superiority or domination combined with a certain degree of smug arrogance. Performed by pushing the chest up and out at the front as well as tilting the face slightly upward. This may be accompanied by motions of hooking both thumbs under one's [[lapels]] or [[suspenders]] even if they are not present.

{{Gestures}}

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Gestures]]

Archive:Types of gestures

2007-11-14T00:21:51Z

81.109.209.218: Added additional meaning

{{unreferenced||article|date=September 2006}}
Gestures are a form of [[Body language]] or [[Non-verbal communication]].
Although some [[gesture]]s, such as the ubiquitous act of [[Hand gesture|pointing]], differ little from one place to another, most gestures do not have invariable or universal meanings, having specific connotations only in certain cultures. Different types of gestures are distinguished. The most famous type of gestures are the so-called emblems or quotable gestures (see the examples below). These are [[culture]] specific gestures that can be used as replacement for words. Communities have repertoires of such gestures. A single emblematic gesture can have very different significance in different cultural contexts, ranging from complimentary to highly offensive.

Another type of gestures are the ones we use when we speak. These gestures are closely coordinated with speech. The meaningful part of the gesture is temporally synchronised with the co-expressive words. For example, a gesture that depicts the act of throwing will be synchronous with the word 'threw' in the utterance "and then he threw the ball right into the window." Other gestures like the so-called beat gestures, are used in conjunction with speech, keeping time with the rhythm of speech and to emphasize certain words or phrases. These types of gestures are integrally connected to speech and thought processes.

==Studies of gesture==
The first full-length study of gesture was published by [[John Bulwer]] in 1644. Bulwer analyzed dozens of gestures, and provided a guide on how to use gestures to increase eloquence and clarity for public speaking. Today, one of the most prominent researchers in the field of gesture research is [[Adam Kendon]]. He has investigated many aspects of gestures, including their role in communication, conventionalization of gesture, integration of gesture and speech, and the evolution of language. Other prominent researchers in this field include [[Susan Goldin-Meadow]] and [[David McNeill]].

==Social significance==
[[Image:VitarkaMudra.JPG|thumb|right|200px|Vitarka [[mudra]], [[Tarim Basin]], 9th century.]]

Gestures play a major role in many aspects of human life. Many animals, including humans, use gestures to initiate a [[Courtship|mating ritual]]. This may include elaborate [[dance]]s and other movements.

Religious and spiritual gestures are also common, such as the [[Christianity|Christian]] [[sign of the cross]]. In [[Hinduism]] and [[Buddhism]], a ''[[mudra]]'' ([[Sanskrit]], meaning either "posture" or "currency" depending on the interpretation) is a symbolic gesture made with the hand or fingers. Each mudra has a specific meaning, playing a central role in Hindu and Buddhist [[iconography]]. An example is the Vitarka mudra, the gesture of discussion and transmission of Buddhist teaching. It is done by joining the tips of the thumb and the index together, while keeping the other fingers straight.

==Using one hand==
{{main|Hand gesture}}
===Itching Under The Chin===
In Italian culture this represents "I don't care, I can't be bothered". This is done by keeping one hand straight, placing it under the chin, and 'throwing out' that hand toward the person receiving the gesture. In Italian American culture this represents "Screw You!"; U.S. Supreme Court justice [[Antonin Scalia]] received criticism for using this gesture towards a reporter.

Scratching or stroking the chin or beard (where possible) can be used to indicate that the gesticulater is thinking or puzzled.
In the UK, an "itchy chin" can be used to indicate that the person receiving the gesture is lying or talking nonsense, [[bullshit]], in other words. In the UK scratching the chin as a way of implying that the speaker is talking nonsense is often accompanied with any or all of the phrases "reck-on", "chinnus magnus" and "jimmy hill" in no particular order.

===Bang bang===
[[Image:gesture thumb up then down forefinger out like gun.jpg|thumb|right|200px|This gesture mimes a [[handgun]].]]

The "bang bang" gesture is performed by raising the fist with the index finger and thumb extended. The index finger points at the recipient. The thumb is then brought down on top of the fingers. This imitation of the action of a revolver [[pistol]] is often meant to represent a [[handgun]] in children's games. It may also be used menacingly to mean "I'm gonna kill you", or simply as a playful greeting. The middle finger is often also extended to widen the "barrel".

[[Texas Tech University|Texas Tech]] fans use the "bang bang" salute (fingers pointed upward) to cheer their team. Also, the "bang bang" performed with both hands was a signature gesture of [[professional wrestling|professional wrestler]] [[Mick Foley]] while he was in his "Cactus Jack" [[gimmick (professional wrestling)|persona]].

Also, if the thumb and middle finger are used to click, and the thumb the pointed upwards to form the gun, this can also be interpreted as a greeting.

A two-handed version of the same gesture can be used to indicate sporting/business success or sexual conquest (frequently accompanied by a syncopated "pow-pow", esp. in a posh British accent).

=== Beckoning sign ===
Index finger sticking out of the clenched fist, palm facing the gesturer. The finger moves repeatedly towards the gesturer (in a hook) as to draw something nearer. It has the general meaning of "come here", although it is normally seen as condescending or anyway impolite. It is sometimes performed with the four fingers, with the entire hand, or even with the arm, depending on how far the recipient of the sign is.

When performed with the index finger, it may have a mild sexual connotation depending on the circumstance.

In [[Africa]], the [[Far East]] and many [[Spanish language|Spanish]]-speaking countries, this sign is given with all four fingers and with the palm down.

In [[Japan]] there is a similar gesture, but the four fingers are used, the palm faces the recipient and the hand is at head's height. This is the gesture featured in the [[maneki neko]].

===Benediction and blessing===
[[Image:ConstantineCoin.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Benediction gesture, on a coin of [[Constantine I (emperor)|Emperor Constantine]].]]

The benediction gesture is a raised right hand with the ring and pinky fingers touching the palm, while the middle and index fingers remain raised. Taken from Ancient Roman iconography for speaking (an example is the Augustus of Prima Porta where the emperor Augustus assumes the pose of an orator in addressing his troops), it is used as a simple [[charm]] or [[blessing]] amongst many [[neopagan|modern]] [[Paganism|Pagans]], and has a vast array of uses. Perhaps the most common and/or noteworthy use of the gesture is while tracing an invisible "air [[pentagram]]" before someone during certain [[Wicca]]n rituals such as the [[Great Rite]] performed during [[Beltane]] and [[Drawing down the Moon (ritual)|Drawing Down the Moon]] on the [[Esbat]]s. One might also use the gesture to trace invisible pentagrams or other sigils over items to be blessed or empowered, such as [[holy water]], [[ritual]] [[wine]], ritual [[ale]], or [[cannabis|the Sacred Herb]]. The two extended fingers are used to point (except when an [[athame]], [[wand]], or [[sword]] is used).

A similar sign, called the ''benediction'' gesture, is used by the [[Christianity|Christian]] [[clergy]] to perform [[blessing]]s with the [[sign of the cross]]; however Christians keep the thumb raised - the three raised fingers (index, middle, and thumb) are frequently allegorically interpreted as representing the three Persons of the [[Holy Trinity]]. It was shown by representations of [[Jesus]] as [[Christ Pantocrator]].

===Blah-blah===
The fingers are kept straight and together in a horizontal fashion while the thumb is held out straight. The fingers and thumb then snap together repeatedly to suggest a mouth talking. It is used to indicate contempt for a person talking for an excessive period of time about nothing the gesturer feels is important.

===Check, please===
This gesture, understood by waiters around the world to mean that a dinner patron wishes to pay the bill and depart, is executed by touching the index finger and thumb together and "writing" a wavy line in the air, as if to sign one's name. An alternate gesture with the same meaning is made by touching the index finger and thumb together and drawing a [[Tick (checkmark)|checkmark]] ({{unicode|<big>✓</big>}}) in the air. In [[Egypt]], the left hand is held palm-out and the right, palm-down, is tapped against the left wrist to request the check. In [[Thailand]], one makes a circling gesture with the thumb and fingers pinched together- as if you are holding an imaginary pencil and making imaginary scribbles on a piece of paper. Sometimes the opposite palm is used as the 'paper'. In the [[Philippines]], one outlines a rectangle in the air using the thumb and forefinger of both hands.

===Clenched fist===
A raised, clenched fist is used as a gesture of defiance by a number of groups. It is usually considered to be hostile, yet without any sexual, scatological, or notionally offensive connotations. It is especially associated with [[Communism|Communists]] and with other nationalist or ethnic [[revolution]]ary or would-be revolutionary movements, and with the [[Black Power]] movements of the [[1960s]] in the United States. It is the custom to make this gesture while singing ''[[The Internationale]]'', the [[Marxism|Marxist]] anthem. A clenched fist raised quickly up and down and then punched in some direction also signifies a military call for a heavy weapons team to close on the gesturer or to move or open fire in the direction indicated by the punch. In US military, a closed right hand fist raised up with a straight arm with the finger side towards the receiver is an order for the person to stop immediately - to "freeze".<ref>[http://www.truthout.org/docs_2006/071007D.shtml Truthout.org]</ref>

: See also: [[With a strong hand and an outstretched arm]]

=== Pound fist ===
Pound fist is a greeting, in which two individuals touch fists.

=== Clinton thumb ===
The gesture dubbed the "Clinton thumb" after its most famous user, [[Bill Clinton]], is used by politicians to provide emphasis in speeches without pointing the finger. This gesture has the thumb leaning against the thumbside portion of the index finger, which is part of a closed fist. It does not exhibit the anger of the clenched fist or pointing finger, and so is thought to be less threatening. This gesture was likely adopted by Clinton from [[John F. Kennedy]], who can be seen using it in many speeches during his political career.{{Fact|date=February 2007}} It is often used in extemporaenous speech and debate, as a tool for emphasizing points.

===Crossed fingers===
{{main|Crossed fingers}}
A gesture made by crossing the index and middle fingers such that the middle finger overlaps and intertwines the index finger, which can be used to signify one's hope that something should succeed (compare to the phrase "Keep your fingers crossed."). According to OldSuperstitions.com, this stems from the [[superstition]] that "Bad luck is trapped at the point where the two fingers meet so when we cross our fingers, we stop the bad luck from escaping and allow our wishes to come true.". However, if placed behind one's back, the gesture takes on an entirely different meaning: it is then normally used to indicate that the user secretly wishes for something ''contrary'' to what is being stated or going on, or that a lie is being told. This usage is often seen in dramatic contexts.

===Cuckoo sign===
A gesture made by closing ones fist, extending the index finger, and circling it around ones ear for several seconds. This gesture is used to indicate that someone is speaking nonsense or is crazy (more colloquially, this is described as being [[cuckoo]]). The "cuckoo" sign is well-known in the United States.

===Fig sign===
[[Image:gesture fist with thumb through fingers.jpg|thumb|right|200px|The "fig sign" is an ancient gesture with many uses.]]

The "fig sign" is a gesture made with the hand and fingers curled and the thumb thrust between the middle and index fingers, or, rarely, the middle and ring fingers, forming the fist so that the thumb partly pokes out. In some areas of the world, the gesture is considered a good luck charm, in others it is considered an obscene gesture, and in still others it is used in the "I've got your nose!" child's game. This gesture is also the letter "T" in the [[American Sign Language alphabet]]. In [[International Sign]], which otherwise uses the same manual alphabet, "T" has been modified to avoid possible offense.

In [[ancient Rome]], this gesture was called the ''mano fico'', and was a fertility and good luck charm designed to ward off evil. Although this usage has survived in [[Brazil]], where carved images of hands in this gesture are used in good luck [[Amulet|talisman]]s, in many other cultures, such as Greece, Indonesia, Turkey, Cyprus and Russia, the sign has come to have an insulting meaning roughly equivalent to "screw you", based on the thumb being seen as representing a [[clitoris]] or [[sexual intercourse]]. In modern Russia this gesture is used mostly by kids with the meaning "screw you/no way". The same meaning is expressed by adults either with bent elbow (rude, very emphatic, non-classy), or with a "finger" (used mostly by city dwellers). The "finger" made it to Russian gesture language from Western movies. In modern [[Italian language|Italian]], the gesture is called the ''mano fica'', taken to mean "fig hand", as the Italian word for "[[fig]]" is ''fico'' (''ficus'' in [[Latin]]). The obscene connotations of the gesture may partly originate from the fact that a similar Italian word, ''fica'', is a slang term referring to the [[vulva]]. This sexual connotation may date back to ancient Roman times; some Roman amulets combine a ''[[phallus]]'' and a ''mano fico'' gesture. In [[Dante Alighieri|Dante]]'s ''[[Divine Comedy#Inferno|Inferno]]'', [[Vanni Fucci]] curses [[God]] with a "fig" gesture. [http://danteworlds.laits.utexas.edu/circle8b.html#vanni]

Also known as the [[Sicilian Fist]] in Sicily, worn as a good luck charm. * [http://www.italybyvip.com/1874.html Images of the "Sicilian Fist Charm" in Sicily]

The gesture is also used in a trick played by adults and parents, with the intention of convincing their child that his or her nose has been taken away. Someone, usually an adult, grabs at the child's nose and forms the fig sign, exclaiming, "I've got your nose, I've got your nose!" The thumb is supposed to be the child's removed nose.

Many [[neopaganism|neopagans]] use this gesture as a symbol of the [[mother goddess]] to help adherents identify one another. In this context, it is referred to as the "Sign of the Goddess". Its counterpart is the ''[[corna]]'' sign.

In [[The Gnostic Mass]] of [[Aleister Crowley]], this gesture is assumed by the priest throughout the Mass when his lance is not in his hand. It is a phallic device and symbolizes copulation, the fruit of which is a fig, traditionally appropriated to Jupiter the phallic sky god. The use of "the ficus" in the Gnostic Mass replaces the sign of benediction (mentioned above) used in Christian ceremonies.

===Finger Snap===
{{Unreferenced|date=September 2006}}
One of several gestures familiar to modern people primarily through old [[animated cartoons]], this gesture generally expresses a confident "screw you!" in the face of an adversary. The gesturer holds one hand out, palm up, in the direction of his antagonist and snaps his thumb and middle finger, generally accompanied by a high-nosed, "snooty" facial expression and followed by crossing the arms.

In some countries, particularly Great Britain, snapping the fingers is used to signify remembering or failing to remember. Snapping the fingers repeatedly at a constant rate is commonly used to signify that the person has forgotten something and is trying to recall it. This is often done with the fingers snapped close to the temple, as though literally 'jogging the memory,' and is associated with the phrase 'it's on the tip of my tongue.'

A single snap, sometimes emphasized by an arced swing of the arm, is used when someone is reminded of something by another person, particularly if it is a job or a chore they have forgotten to do, or as a sign of disappointment or regret. Some people also snap their fingers to catch the attention of others. This is informal - some people may find it rude or even threatening, as it is common for the gesturer to snap his fingers very close to the other's face. In some cases, this may be interpreted as a face-threatening act or a sign of contempt.

==="Hanging"===
This gesture is performed by holding a clenched fist at the side of the head, tilting one's head away from one's fist, and making a choking sound. It may also be accompanied by hanging the tongue loosely out of one's mouth, and rolling of the eyes back into the head. It is generally used to signify "what I would rather be doing". It can also be used to show suicide.

===Horns===
{{main|Corna}}
[[Image:gesture raised fist with index and pinky lifted.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Corna]]

Many [[neopaganism|neopagans]] use it as a symbol of the [[horned god]] to identify each other; in this context it is referred to as the "Sign of the Horned God". Its counterpart is the ''fig sign'', above.

Some say that it is meant to ward off — or to bestow — the [[evil eye]]. It is also a representation of the [[Devil]] by some [[Satanist]]s. The gesture's origin is believed to be an imitation of the shape of a goats head, which has many associations with the concept of Satan in [[Christianity]] [http://www.keyway.ca/htm2001/20010924.htm Satan's Goat]

It has a variety of other meanings as well, depending on culture and area. In some places, it is a sexual insult, charging a man with being a victim of [[adultery|cuckoldry]] (this insult is most common in [[Spain]] and [[Italy]] but is also used in Brazil). Perhaps because of its [[occult]] significance, it is used as a salute by fans of [[Devil horns#Heavy metal|heavy metal music]]. If one reverses the extended fingers, one gets the "inverted heavy metal salute" which can be given as a reply to a heavy metal salute. In this case, the sign is known as "devil horns".

Also a common hand gesture used by the University of Texas at Austin. The sign is also usually accompanied by the slogan "Hook 'Em Horns." The gesture is said to look like a head of a Longhorn, the University's mascot.
To [[Chaote]]s practicing [[Lovecraftian magick]], it is called the "Sign of Voor" or the "Voorish Sign".

===Kodály Hand Signs===
Named after [[Zoltán Kodály]], and largely defined by [[John Curwen]], Kodály Hand Signs are a way of representing musical notes by holding the hand in a certain position for each note. The basic concept of using gestures to represent notes is quite ancient, however near the end of the 19th century, the concept was formalized as a standard teaching method. Kodály Hand Signs are featured in the [[1977]] film [[Close Encounters of the Third Kind]].

===Knocking on wood===
{{main|touch wood}}
This signifies the neutralization of a [[jinx]]ing brought on by mentioning an either hoped-for or feared result. The knuckles are rapped on a nearby piece of wood (or, jokingly, someone's head). Usually this is only valid if done on bare (i.e. unpainted) wood. One possible reason for the tradition could have been from an [[animist]] culture who believed that the knocking would release spirits to protect them. It has also been said to stem from a belief that any nearby evil spirits who overhear somebody speaking of good fortune which has come his way may send some bad luck to offset it; knocking on wood was thought to keep the spirits from hearing. It is also known as "tapping wood" or "touching wood".

In Italy, one knocks on iron with the hand in the ''[[corna]]'' horns position.

===Middle finger===
{{main|The finger}}
[[Image:Middle finger.JPG|thumb|right|200px|"[[The finger]]" is a very common offensive hand gesture.]]
"The finger" is a gesture consisting of a fist with the middle finger extended. It appears to be universally understood as "[[fuck|fuck you]]"or get stuffed due to its resemblance to the penis. It is certainly thousands of years old, being referred to in Ancient Roman literature as the ''digitus infamis'' or ''digitus impudicus''. Performing this gesture is also called "flipping the bird" in countries where "the finger" is used. In other regions, "flipping the bird" refers to the raising of the middle and index finger with the back of the hand directed at the recipient. It can also mean "Victor" (see ''[[#V Sign|V Sign]]'', below) in some countries, which is not to be mistaken for the "Peace" gesture, which is done with the palm facing the recipient of the gesture, but in Britain and some other countries it is an offensive gesture, equivalent to "the finger". [[George W. Bush]] can be seen making the gesture while he was the Governor of Texas, while goofing off before beginning filming of a public address.<ref>[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o9Do-s1cdPk Bush "One-fingered Victory Salute" Video] </ref>

Former [[professional wrestler]] [[Stone Cold Steve Austin]] used the finger quite frequently in [[World Wrestling Entertainment|WWE]] shows. He raises both of the fingers to the crowd as a way of saluting to them. Also, he gestures the finger at his opponent before kicking them in the stomach and performing the [[Stone Cold Stunner]].

Comedian [[Dane Cook]] parodied the gesture with his "Super Finger" gesture, which consists of raising the middle finger, ring finger, and thumb on the same hand while lowering (or curling) the pointer and pinky finger. It is meant to be a more "powerful" version of "the finger".

The middle finger is also used to represent the number four when one counts in the binary system using one's fingers.<ref>[http://www.intuitor.com/counting/]</ref>

When this gesture is made with the palm facing forward, it is known to [[Chaote]]s practicing [[Lovecraftian magick]] as the "Sign of Kish". Another Lovecraftian sign is the "Sign of Koth", which consists of fully extending the index finger, middle finger, ring finger, and pinky, while the thumb is tucked against the flat of the hand.

=== Money sign ===
The thumb rubs repeatedly over the tip of the index finger and middle fingers. The ring finger and pinky touch the palm. This gesture is meant to resemble the act of rubbing two coins together (alternatively the act of counting paper bills) and has a general meaning of "money", or "expensive".

===OK===
{{main|Okay}}

This is the touching of the index and middle finger (or just index finger) with the thumb (forming a rough circle) with the raising of the remaining fingers. In the United States and most of Europe, it means "OK" and is inoffensive. The OK sign is used extensively in [[scuba diving]]. It can also mean "[[0 (number)|0]]," or "[[money]]," in [[Japan]].
However, in Germany, it is often seen on the Autobahn, as a silent way of calling someone an "Asshole" (with the fingers extended horizontally). Similar vulgar meanings are found in other countries, but usually you have to turn the 'Ring' upside down (supinated to show the ring in front) like this example from [http://jeroenarendsen.nl/2006/05/butthole-is-not-ok.html Brazil]. It is then a sexual or scatological gesture referring to the [[anus]]

===Pointing===
The typical pointing with the [[index finger]] is a universal gesture. There are many other ways to point, for example with the hand, a head nod or an eye gaze. In many cases pointing at a person is considered rude. A more polite way of pointing to a person would be to to direct the hand in their direction, as if holding a plate. You may point towards yourself to draw attention, and this behavior is seen commonly in [[monkeys]].

===Moutza (Palm of hand)===
{{main|Moutza}}
In most places, a palm raised towards somebody means "stop".

In [[Greece]], the palm of the hand thrust towards somebody with the fingers splayed is an offensive gesture equivalent to giving the finger. The gesture is known in Greek as "moutza". It originates from the Byzantine punishment of parading a chained criminal around town with his face smeared with [[cinder]], or ''moutzos'' in Greek. An even more offensive version is achieved by using both hands to double the gesture, and smacking the palm of one hand against the back of the other, in the direction of the intended recipient. Both the one-handed and the two-handed versions of this gesture can be (and often are) combined with the term "''na''!", meaning "here you go!" or "there!", or "''na, malaka''!", meaning "there, you wanker!"

===Salute===
{{main|Salute}}
There are many forms of [[salute]] gestures, most of which are used to denote respect or obedience for an authority. A common [[military]] hand salute consists of raising the right hand, held flat, to the right eyebrow. [[Scouting]] organizations use related salutes. The armies of various countries adopt slightly different forms of salute: in the United States, the military salute places the hand directed outward over the eyebrow, like a visor; in the United Kingdom armed forces, the hand is brought to the forehead palm outward in military and air force contexts, whereas the naval salute is as in the US forces - the US forces derived their saluting habits from the [[Royal Navy]].

One of the most infamous forms of salute is the "[[Hitler salute]]", which is performed by extending the whole right arm, palm outstretched and facing down, upwards into the air at approximately a 45 degree angle from the ground. Sometimes, this is accompanied by holding the index and middle fingers under the nose, representing Hitler's iconic moustache. This gesture is associated with [[Nazism]] and its leader, [[Adolf Hitler]], as well as with [[Germany]] during [[World War II]]. It is occasionally performed to mock someone or something for perceived [[authoritarianism]] or [[bigotry]]. This gesture was based on the [[Roman salute]], and it was in that capacity that it was revived by [[Tennis Court Oath|French Revolutionaries]] and later by [[Benito Mussolini]]'s [[Fascism|Fascist]] party.

In some countries, mostly in Europe, it is forbidden by law to perform this gesture, although this does not deter [[Neo-Nazism|Neo-Nazis]] and white supremacists from using the gesture in public rallies. Even in other countries, it is generally considered taboo to use the gesture, and this partly caused the [[United States]] to abandon the similar [[Bellamy salute]] used when reciting the [[Pledge of Allegiance]], in favor of the current hand-on-heart gesture.

===Shaka===
{{main|Shaka sign}}
[[Image:gesture raised fist with thumb and pinky lifted.jpg|thumb|right|200px|The "[[shaka sign|shaka]]" sign is a common greeting in beach and surfer culture.]]

The "shaka" sign is a common greeting gesture often associated with [[Hawaii]], [[California]], and [[beach]] and [[surfing|surfer]] culture in general. It consists of extending the thumb and pinky finger while keeping the three middle fingers curled, and is often described colloquially as the "hang loose"or "chilax" gesture. It is similar to [[American Sign Language]] letter "''Y''", where a fist is also made with only the thumb and pinky extended. The sign is often followed by waving as a greeting or acknowledgment. It can be used when driving as a signal of thanks to other drivers (for example, someone who stopped to let another driver onto the road from a driveway).

The "shaka" sign is also the greeting gesture for members of [[Alpha Phi Alpha]] Fraternity, Inc. which is the "phi" sign. All African-American Greek fraternities and sororities have hand greeting gestures.
====Similar gestures====

In Britain and Northern Europe the symbol is used as a signal for owners of older model [[Volkswagen]] vans when passing on roads. The silhouette of the hand reveals a "W"-shaped outline along the top of the hand standing for Volkswagen.

In Spain and Italy, if the thumb points to the mouth, it means "drinking", since it is similar the shape of a ''[[porrón]]'' vessel. This is also true of the [[United States]], [[Portugal]] and [[Brazil]].

In some countries, if the thumb points to the mouth, it can also represent [[marijuana]] usage, in particular the use of a [[bong]]. This is usually accompanied by a sucking noise.

In China, it is also the sign for the number six.

A similar gesture is the "call me" sign, which also has the pinky finger and thumb outstretched, but then also holds it up to the ear, to signify a telephone. This gesture is a common way to silently tell someone to call him or her, such as to continue a conversation in private.

It is also used by [[FC Barcelona]] player [[Ronaldinho]] as part of his goal celebration.

In India, rolling the shaka in a winding motion signifies that the listener does not believe what is being said and that the speaker needs to "spool in the yarn from spinning out too far".

In [[American Sign Language]], a "rolling" version of this sign indicates the activity "play", often used by non-verbal (i.e. pre-speech children) people to ask if one wants to play or that they signer wishes to play.

==="Thanks!" Salute===
Another gesture familiar from vintage cartoons, this is performed by sweeping an opened hand from near one's brow toward the person being addressed, and expresses gratitude. It is adapted from [[American Sign Language]], and alludes to tipping your hat or cap.

===Three middle fingers===
Gestures consisting of fully extending the index, middle, and ring fingers with the thumb and pinky tucked together under the palm have had a variety of meanings over the years.

The gesture was also used by [[Bosnian Croat]]s as a victory sign, representing the Christian [[Trinity]], during the [[Bosnian War]]. To [[Chaote]]s practicing [[Lovecraftian magick]], this gesture is known as the "Sign of the Elders." With the palm facing outwards, the fingers closed (without gaps), the right hand's fingertips to the same-side temple, it is used by the [[scouting|Boy scouts]] as their identifying [[salute]].

In the United States, when the back of the hand faces outwards, this gesture is often used as a [[euphemism]] for "[[#middle finger|the finger]]." It is used especially when a jocular effect is desired. Originally, an accompanying verbal explanation was usual — "Read [[subtext|between the lines]]," referring to the common English expression denoting that one must read carefully to glean the subtle meaning in a passage — but this phrase is now commonly omitted.

===Thumbs up, thumbs down===

A closed fist held with the thumb extended upward or downward is a gesture of approval or disapproval respectively. These gestures have become metaphors in English: ''"My boss gave my proposal the thumbs-up"'' means that the boss approved the proposal, regardless of whether the gesture was made — indeed, the gesture itself is unlikely in a business setting.

The source of the gesture is obscure. Though a favorite of Hollywood '[[sword and sandal|swords and sandals]]' epics, where the "thumbs down" symbol means that the loser in a gladiatorial combat should be put to death, recent research suggests the meanings of the symbols have changed over the years. In [[1997]], Professor [[Anthony Philip Corbeill]] of the [[University of Kansas]] concluded that the thumbs up actually meant "Kill him," basing his assertion on a study of hundreds of ancient artworks. Thus, the "thumbs up" was an approval of the gladiator's request to kill his vanquished foe rather than a vote to allow the defeated to remain alive. Corbeill wrote that a closed fist with a wraparound thumb was the indication for a gladiator's life to be spared.

[[Image:Jean-Leon Gerome Pollice Verso.jpg|thumb|right|200px|''Pollice Verso'' by Jean-Léon Gérôme, [[1872]] is the immediate source of the "thumbs down" gesture in [[popular culture]].]]

In [[Latin]], the "thumbs up" gesture is called ''pollice recto'', "thumbs down" is ''pollice verso''. It is not certain that the contemporary gestures are identical to the gestures performed in [[ancient Rome]]. The current version was popularized by a widely reproduced [[academic art|academic painting]] by the [[19th century]] artist [[Jean-Léon Gérôme]], whose ''Pollice Verso'' depicts a triumphant gladiator standing over a fallen foe, looking up into the [[bleacher]]s for the verdict of the crowd.

Additionally, [[Desmond Morris]]' ''Gestures: Their Origins and Distribution'' traces the practice back to a [[medieval]] custom used to seal business transactions... Over time, the mere sight of an upraised thumb came to symbolize harmony and kind feelings... The gesture's popularization in America is generally attributed to the practices of World War II pilots, who used the thumbs up to communicate with ground crews prior to take-off. American GIs are reputed to have picked up on the thumb and spread it throughout Europe as they marched toward Berlin." [http://slate.msn.com/id/2080812/]

More recently, these gestures are associated with [[film|movie]] [[review]]s, having been popularized by [[Gene Siskel]] and [[Roger Ebert]] in their televised reviews — the thumb up meaning a positive opinion of a film; the thumb down meaning a negative one. One or two thumbs up, often held over the head, may also be used by athletes in celebration of a victory.

"'Thumbs up' traditionally translates as the foulest of Middle-Eastern gesticular insults — the most straightforward interpretation is 'Up yours, pal!' The sign has a similarly pejorative meaning in parts of West Africa, South America, Russia, Iran, Greece, and Sardinia, according to Roger E. Axtell's book ''Gestures: The Do's and Taboos of Body Language Around the World''."[http://slate.msn.com/id/2080812/]

[[Hitchhiker]]s traditionally use a thumbs up gesture to solicit rides from oncoming vehicles, although in this presentation the arm is generally outstretched with the palm and closed fingers facing the motorist. People who have the genetic ability to bend the tip of their thumb backwards are said to have "hitchhiker's thumb," which is a reference to the original gesture.

Additionally, supporters of [[Texas A&M University]] athletic teams use the thumbs-up sign, associated with the cheer, "Gig 'em, Aggies." The Thumb refers to a "gig" used for hunting frogs. The saying came when the Aggies had a big rival in the Southwest Conference in the TCU Horned Frogs.

Thumbs up and thumbs down are extensively used in scuba diving as commands to ascend or descend.

[[World Wrestling Entertainment|WWE]] Superstar [[Dave Bautista|Batista]] uses this gesture to signify his finisher, the [[Batista Bomb]].

=== Tsk-tsk ===
Palm towards the recipient, all fingers closed except for the index, which alternates from left to right, like a [[metronome]]. In English-speaking countries it has a disapproving meaning and can be accompanied by a "[[tsk|tsk-tsk]]" sound. This is also known as "finger-wagging".

In Italy and Brazil it simply means "no", and does not have any patronizing connotation.

===V sign===
[[Image:Nixon-depart.png|thumb|right|200px|[[Richard Nixon]] gives the V-sign one last time after resigning from the presidency.]]
{{main|V sign}}

The "V sign" is made by lifting the middle and index finger with the palm of the hand facing the recipient (and the remaining fingers clenched). It was associated with the [[catchphrase]] ''"V" for Victory'' in [[World War II]]. In the [[1960s]], it came to be known as the "[[peace]] sign," the gestural equivalent of the [[peace symbol]]. It was associated with British prime minister [[Winston Churchill]] during World War II, and later, with U.S. president [[Richard Nixon]]. It is also the sign for the letter V in [[American Sign Language]].

This sign is frequently used by the Japanese, most times holding up 2 "V" signs very close to either side of their face with a big grin during pictures.

In the UK, Australia, and some other countries, reversing the V sign so that the back of the hand facing the recipient is seen as the equivalent of giving [[finger (gesture)|the finger]]. Popular myth supposes it was originally a taunt by English Longbow Archers towards the French who were known to cut off an English Archer's first and middle fingers if captured.

Additionally, due to its use in an advertisement for the Australian made Valiant Charger (which ceased production around 1980) many people still display the V sign, in homage to the ad, and the car, if that vehicle happens to be driven past. Hardly an every day occurrence, but of some trivial interest.

===Vulcan salute===
{{main|Vulcan salute}}

The Vulcan salute consists of a raised hand, palm outward, fingers extended, with the index and middle finger kept close together, and the ring and pinky finger close together, with a "V" shaped space between them, and the thumb sticking out alone.

This gesture is associated with the phrase "Live long and prosper", and derives from ''[[Star Trek]]'', where it is used as a salute by fictional humanoid species the [[Vulcan (Star Trek)|Vulcans]].

It was introduced by [[Leonard Nimoy]] in his character of [[Mr. Spock]] and is drawn directly from the benedictory gesture made with both hands by a [[Kohen]] (priest in Judaism, a descendant of Aaron) during the [[Priestly Blessing]] ([[Hebrew language|Hebrew]]: ''Birkat Kohanim''). The [[Kohen|Kohanim]] recite a blessing while performing this "gesture" and the other congregants respond with [[Amen]]s.

This gesture is also known as the "Spocker" in allusion to [[Shocker (hand gesture)|the Shocker]].

===Wanker===
[[Image:Fingers and thumb in circle downward motion.jpg|thumb|right|200px|Wanker]]
A loose fist (with all fingers forming a cylindrical shape) is made, and shaken up and down (or sometimes, back and forth) at the wrist.

The gesture is imitative of the motions of male [[masturbation]]. Its meaning is equivalent to the word [[wanker]] or implies something is of little importance. If directed to a person or group, who are not necessarily present, it is considered a display of contempt toward them.

The name for this gesture is described by speakers of [[American English]] as a [[Britishism]].

[[Image:Portugal Wanker Gesture.jpg|thumb|right|200px|The Overhand Portuguese Wanker Gesture]]

In [[Portugal]] they use the wanker gesture but with the palm facing the ground thereby implying that the person is masturbating someone else rather than themselves. As such this has [[homosexual]] or promiscuous implications when directed at someone instead of the milder suggestion that they enjoy self-gratification.

===Wave===
A wave is a gesture in which the hand is raised and moved back and forth, as a [[greeting]] or sign of departure. The orientation of the hand varies by culture and situation. In many cultures, the palm is oriented toward the recipient of the wave.

In Chinese culture, orienting the hand palm-down and waving it up and down signifies "come here", rather than a greeting. 

===Whoop-Dee-Doo===
Point the index finger up and rotate it. This is a usually used as a response gesture to indicate something is uninteresting or irrelavent. Similar to saying a sarcastic "Whoop-Dee-Doo" or "Big deal".

==Using two hands==
{{main|Hand gesture}}
===Awkward Turtle===
The Awkward Turtle is a gesture made after something awkward just happened, or when there is an awkward silence.
To perform an awkward turtle there are three steps to take. First, place hands on top of each other. Next, move thumbs out and away from the hands. Finally, rotate the thumbs.

Nowadays the gesture is used in the United States to hush children, or to calm participants in a heated argument. In [[Japan]], the same gesture may be used to request the check when dining at a restaurant (see also [[#Check, please|Check, please]], above).

==="Gills"===
This gesture involves holding the backs of the wrists against the jawline (with elbows outstretched) and then waggling one's fingers. The gesture is often accompanied by a feminine-voiced "Ooooo!" which rises and falls in intonation. It is used when one would normally say (sarcastically) "well aren't you clever?", or to imply that someone is acting too posh for their station. It is peculiar to Scotland owing to its use in Scottish TV sketch show [[Chewin the Fat]].

==="Shame on you"===
This gesture involves pointing at a person with the index finger of one hand while rubbing the pointed finger with the index finger of the opposite hand. The rubbing motion is directed toward the intended recipient and is repeated at least three times. It is used to imply that the targeted person should feel shame.

===Time-out===
The "time-out" gesture — a "T" formed with the hands, with one hand with flat palm placed perpendicular to the other hand with flat palm, roughly in the center — originates in American sports. It was, and is, used where a brief [[sport time-out|pause in play]] is called for, such as to make substitutions. In [[basketball]], the gesture is used to indicate that a player or coach is guilty of a [[technical foul]].

===Whatever!===
A gesture associated with [[Valley Girl]]s. Forming the letter "W" by extending the two index fingers upward and touching the thumbs together at a 45 degree angle, this hand sign is used silently or in conjunction with an uttered "Whatever!" (pronounced with a slight pause after the first syllable, emphasis on the second, and drawing out the third syllable to a hard "r"). It is a sarcastic response dismissing whatever has just been said to the person making the gesture.

==Hand with body gestures==
{{Mergeto|Hand gestures|Talk page|date=April 2007}}
===Bent elbow===

This is performed in two parts: first, the right hand is placed in the elbow crook of the left arm. The left arm is then raised (fist clenched) at the victim in a smooth and continuous motion. While the motion is essential to the gesture, the choice of arm is not. This gesture is associated with [[Italy|Italians]] and is considered a more theatrical and physically exuberant version of the [[finger (gesture)|finger]], and may even be combined with the finger. In Italian it is known as the ''gesto dell'ombrello'', meaning literally "the umbrella gesture." It is typically used in two different situations: 1) to answer "no way!" in an extremely emphatic (and quite vulgar) way; 2) after a triumph against some unfair enemy, with a sense of revenge. The gesture is frequently made stronger by crying "toh!" or "tiè!", both meaning "take this!", at the precise moment the hand touches the crook of the elbow.

This gesture is also in use in [[France]] as ''bras d'honneur'' (arm of honour), where it is usually understood as ''va te faire foutre'', still meaning "fuck off." In [[Spain]] and [[Portugal]], it is a ''corte de mangas'' ("[[sleeve]] cut") or a ''manguito'' (a cover formerly worn by public services bureaucratic workers on the arms to protect one's sleeves from ink splatters) respectively and is done with the left hand on the right elbow, without the continuous motion. In [[Portugal]], the iconic fictional character [[Zé Povinho]], created by [[Bordalo Pinheiro]], is usually depicted performing this gesture. This gesture, known as ''banana'', was also once used in Brazil with the meaning of "fuck you", but it has not been used since the middle of the 90's.

The gesture is sometimes used repetitively by fans at [[Citizens Bank Park]] in [[Philadelphia]] when the [[Phillies]] face the [[Atlanta Braves]] as a [[parody]] of the Braves' [[tomahawk chop]], and this usage is known as the "[[South Philly]] tomahawk chop" due to the gritty reputation of [[Philadelphia]] sports fans.

The gesture above has long been known in Slavic countries and Greece in the above senses plus "fuck you", without any standard name. In [[Poland]] its name has been standardized to "Kozakiewicz's gesture", after Polish [[pole vault]] jumper [[Władysław Kozakiewicz]], who had shown this gesture to the jeering Russian public during the [[1980 Summer Olympics]] in [[Moscow]].

===Biting one's thumb===
[[Image:Sampson bites his thumb.JPG|left|200px|thumb|How NOT to bite your thumb{{deletable image-caption}}]]
[[Image:Abram catches Sampson biting his thumb.JPG|right|200px|thumb|Abram catches Sampson biting his thumb]]
[[Biting one's thumb]] was an old rude British gesture. It is comparable to "[[#middle finger|the Finger]]" in modern terms. In [[William Shakespeare]]'s play ''[[Romeo and Juliet]]'', Sampson bites his thumb at the Montagues (Act 1, Scene 1).

The gesture does not literally involve biting the thumb. The fingernail of a thumb is placed behind the upper teeth, with the thumb thus pointing upwards, and the thumb is then bent forwards, the fingernail making a clicking sound as it flicks past the teeth.

An equivalent gesture still persists in [[Italy]].

=== Biting one's hand ===
In Sicily, biting one's flat hand or fist is a powerful threat.

===Bowing, kneeling, kowtowing===
A [[bowing (social)|bow]] is a gesture of respect involving lowering the head, usually performed by a social inferior to a social superior. Various cultures have different degrees or ways of performing the bow; [[China]] and [[Japan]] are particularly associated with elaborate and formal bowing. Bowing is also done by many groups as a ritual associated with [[prayer]]. In the Western world, women [[curtsey]] rather than bow. [[Kneel]]ing and "[[kowtow]]ing" are more extreme or elaborate forms of self-abasement before a social superior.

===Choking sign===
[[Image:Chokinggesture.JPG|200px|thumb|right|The "Choking" sign]]
The standard gesture to indicate that one is [[choking]] is to hold the throat with both hands as if strangling oneself. This is recognized as a request for immediate [[first aid]] for choking. It is promoted as a way to prevent onlookers from confusing the victim's distress with some other problem, such as a [[myocardial infarction|heart attack]], when the person cannot speak. The gesture is sometimes used metaphorically to refer to someone or something "choking" in the slang sense of failing at something while under pressure, for instance at an athletic event.

===Crossing oneself===
{{main|Sign of the cross}}
The "[[sign of the cross|sign of the Cross]]" is the use of the right hand to touch the forehead, chest, left shoulder, and right shoulder, consecutively. It represents the [[Christian cross]]. (Roman Catholics crossing themselves touch the forehead, chest, left shoulder, then right shoulder; Byzantine (Eastern) Catholics and Eastern Orthodox Christians touch the right shoulder before the left, with the thumb and first two fingers joined — symbolizing the Trinity — and the tips of the last two fingers touching the palm, symbolizing the dual nature of Christ in one being. )

This gesture is used by [[Roman Catholic]]s, [[Eastern Orthodox Church|Orthodox Christians]], and some other Christian groups in [[prayer]]s, to perform blessings, and as a salute before entering a [[church]] or similar place of religious significance. It is also used in various kinds of Christian [[folk religion]] to avert [[evil]] or [[bad luck]].

===Cutthroat===
[[Image:Cutthroatgesture.JPG|200px|thumb|right|The "Cutthroat" sign]]
This gesture is performed by drawing the hand, or a finger or two, across the throat. It represents slitting the throat with a knife, and means that the gesturer or someone else is metaphorically being killed. It is rarely if ever used literally to refer to death, though it is occasionally used as a theatrical threat ("I'm going to kill you"). In these contexts, it is sometimes accompanied by a harsh "kkkkkch" sound.

This gesture can also mean to "cut," "stop," or to discontinue a particular action. It can also be used to indicate something has ended or a previous process has concluded. [[Scuba diving|Scuba]] divers use this gesture with the palm swept across the throat to indicate that they have run out of air. Airport ground personnel also use this gesture to indicate a variety of things (due to the loud environment), such as baggage offload has completed or the last of the passengers have disembarked. In this context, it can be understood to mean: "That's it."

Also used by movie personnel when having to signal a cessation of activity under silent conditions.

Additionally, [[World Wrestling Entertainment|WWE]] Superstar [[The Undertaker]] uses this gesture to signify his signature moves, the [[Chokeslam]], [[Powerbomb#Elevated powerbomb|Last Ride]], and [[Piledriver (professional wrestling)#Tombstone piledriver|Tombstone piledriver]], as did [[Chris Benoit]] until his recent death.

=== Drinking sign ===
In UK, the gesture for drinking (used for example as an invitation to "go down the [[pub]]") is made by putting the back of the thumb just below the lower lip, while the other fingers are close together as if holding an imaginary [[pint]] of beer, tipping it repeatedly. This gesture can also be used to imply that somebody is drunk, either literally or insultingly.
In other countries, the shaka sign is used in a similar way, as described above.

===Flipping the fingers out from under the chin===

A [http://news.bostonherald.com/localRegional/view.bg?articleid=132932 traditional Sicilian gesture] analogous in meaning to the raised middle finger. This gesture became the center of a controversy in March of 2006, when [[U.S. Supreme Court|Supreme Court]] [[Associate Justice]] [[Antonin Scalia]] was photographed allegedly making the gesture to illustrate his response to his critics. Scalia later claimed that he used a different gesture, waving his fingers beneath his chin, a gesture translating to "I couldn't care less."
===Forehead Clunk===
This gesture indicates stupidity, usually a minor and immediately recognized slip of logic, judgment, or speech; and is performed by striking the forehead with the heel of the hand.

=== Hand over heart ===
This gesture involves placing one's right hand, palm outstretched and facing in, over one's heart. Male [[hat]] or cap wearers typically remove their hats and hold them in this hand. In some cultures, it is used as a gesture of respect towards [[flag]]s or during singing of a [[national anthem]]. In the United States, it is also performed as a part of the rituals of the [[Pledge of Allegiance]]. It can also be used to indicate sincerity, shock, or hurt.

===Loser===
This gesture is performed by raising the index finger and thumb of your right hand perpendicular to each other so that they form the letter "L". It is then placed onto one's forehead. It signifies that the person to whom this gesture is directed is a loser.
However, when the opposite hand is used, the gesture becomes highly ironic.

===My eye===

In France, Germany, and other parts of Europe{{Fact|date=September 2007}} it is common to point your index finger at your eye and even pull the skin under the eye lightly down to emphasize the presenting of the eye. The gesture displays disbelief or that a certain statement is made jokingly, similar to winking in American culture.

In Japan, tugging at the eye, often accompanied by sticking out one's tongue, is used as a childishly offensive gesture, or to indicate boredom.

In Italy, Portugal, Brazil and all Spanish-speaking nations it means "watch out" (POR, ITA:''occhio!'',SPA:''¡ojo!''), and is used for warning or threatening.

In Denmark it can be a joking threat, often accompanied by the phrase: "Because the eyes are what you takes care for the most".

===Nonsense===
Performed by waving the palm of your hand in front of your face, it may be used to tell the other person that an idea he or she had was nonsense.

In [[Portugal]], this gesture usually means the person being referred to missed an extremely obvious detail.

===Nose thumbing ===
For this gesture, also known as "cocking a snoot", "giving the five-finger salute", "cocking a snook", or Queen Anne's Fan, the thumb is placed on the tip of the nose, with the remaining fingers of the hand extended and waggled freely. This gesture can be ended with a dramatic flicking of the thumb away from the end of the nose and towards the recipient. It is used in (gentle) mockery of someone. It dates back to at least the 18th century and is probably much older.

To add emphasis, the gesture can be made using both hands, connecting them by touching the little finger of the first hand with the thumb of the second, and waggling the remaining seven fingers. It is frequently accompanied by [[blowing a raspberry]], or by sticking out the tongue.

===Over the Head===
A hand is extended and passed over the head with the palm facing the head. This is often accompanied with a whooshing sound or an exclamation of "Over your head!". This indicates that the receiver has failed to comprehend or notice something obvious.

===Screwing The Forehead===
A finger is placed against the temple, as if pointing at it, and a screwing motion, as if making a dimple, is made by twisting the wrist. In Italian culture, this indicates that the person referred to is "crazy" or "nuts."

===Suck my dick===
This gesture is performed by crossing the outstretched arms across the thighs, putting emphasis on the [[groin]]. This was used by popular professional wrestling [[stable (wrestling)|stable]], [[D-Generation X]].

There is a variation to this where a fist is made and shook near the mouth while bulging ones tongue against their cheeks to mimic fellatio.

===The Turkish Fig===
In [[Turkey]] and [[Greece]], putting the thumb between the middle and index finger of the right hand and making a fist is called "the fig" and is extremely offensive. In Turkey, taking that fist, placing it in the left hand and then pushing it out to make a slapping sound with the wrist of the right hand is even more offensive, and is usually accompanied by a string of obscenities. These gestures are often seen at soccer games.

===Touched / screw loose===
Tapping one's index finger against the head indicates that a person or an idea being discussed is insane or "touched in the head". A similar, more elaborate gesture uses a circling motion of the finger at the temple or side of the head. This signifies that the person is "mixed up" or "has a screw loose". In Germany, tapping or pointing to the temple is used as an insult, often with the accompanying phrase "du hast einen Vogel." While this literally means "You have a bird," it is idiomatic for saying that you are insane. Also, in Indonesia, drawing a line across the forehead with the side of the right index finger denotes a similar meaning.

A variant of this one is the suicide. Make a gun with your hand and pretend to shoot point blank at your own temple. It can be accompanied with sticking out the tongue or a shooting sound for full effect, and often implies that the speaker is a "complete idiot". A more recent use of this is in the movie, "40-Year Old Virgin" where one of the characters, after being bored with a conversation, proceeds to aim at his temple and pretend to fire. Afterwards, he uses his other hand and does a reverse cupping motion outward from the other side of his head to signify his brains splattering out.

In Japan, a variation of this is knocking on the temple with the knuckle of the index finger. This is usually used in reference to the signer; "I'm such an idiot!"

===Twisting The Cheek===
Thumb and forefinger are placed against the cheek, and a screwing motion, as if making a dimple, is made by twisting the wrist. In Italian culture, this can mean "I see a pretty girl" or, just generally mean "Wow!"

==="Wiping" one's forehead===
The act of wiping one's own forehead, regardless of whether sweat has actually formed there, is a sign indicating many things such as "That was close" or "What a relief". It can also be used to express relief after some hard work, or to express feeling hot.

==Body and facial gestures==
{{further|[[Facial expression]]}}
[[Image:Eyeroll.JPG|thumb|right|200px|Rolling one's eyes can express exasperation or condescension.]]

Many gestures utilize only the face or body, without the hands.

===Eye-rolling===
Performed by rotating the eyes upward, it indicates condescension, contempt, boredom, or exasperation. This is often referred to as "rolling ones eyes to Heaven," as though wishing for a divine intervention for a rescue from boredom, frustration, etc.

===Mooning===
[[Mooning]] is the act of displaying one's [[nudity|bare]] [[buttocks]] by lowering the back side of one's [[trousers]] and [[underpants]], usually without exposing the [[genitals]]. Mooning is used in some cultures to express protest, scorn, disrespect, or provocation. It can also be done for [[shock value]] or fun.

===The "peacock"===
Expresses superiority or domination combined with a certain degree of smug arrogance. Performed by pushing the chest up and out at the front as well as tilting the face slightly upward. This may be accompanied by motions of hooking both thumbs under one's [[lapels]] or [[suspenders]] even if they are not present.

{{Gestures}}

==References==
{{reflist}}

[[Category:Gestures]]