A brief history on the custom of applauding The word applause is derived from the Latin word ‘applaudere’, which means ‘’to strike upon’’. Audiences usually applaud after a performance of some kind. This might be a music concert, a sporting event, a speech, or a play. It’s almost always given as a sign of approval….
Image credit: Jeremy Walter/Shutterstock.com Bowing was a fairly common gesture in many countries up until the relatively recent past. However, today in many cultures, it has all but disappeared. For instance, in western society, you would only expect to see a formal bow performed in very specific circumstances. This might be by an actor at…
A brief history of the gesture of the ‘High Five’ The act where at least two people simultaneously fully extend their arms in the air and then slap hands is now a universally recognised gesture of celebration known as the ‘high five’. But where did it come from and when did it start? It…
A brief history as to why we say ‘cheers’ when drinking It’s widely accepted that the custom of toasting originates back to the times of the ancient Greeks and Romans. It is known that they would give offerings to the gods during ceremonial banquets. Those present would raise their wine-filled drinking cups in honour of…
A brief history as to why we give the ‘thumbs up’ sign! It’s widely accepted that the ‘thumbs up’ gesture originates from the gladiatorial contests of ancient Rome. It was used by spectators to decide the fate of the losing gladiators. However, if you thought the ‘thumbs-up’ sign from the crowd meant that the…
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