the nod
Wordless go-ahead signal
The nod is informal approval or selection, especially when granted by someone in authority: She got the nod for the promotion, The committee gave the project the nod.
The phrase evokes a slight downward head movement signaling assent—a gesture requiring no words.
To give someone the nod is to choose or authorize them.
- acknowledgmentConfirmation of receipt
- approvalFavorable opinion given
- green lightAuthorization to proceed
- gestureCommunicative body movement
- head bobBrief up-down motion
greeting · bow · tacit agreement · unspoken agreement · knowing · knowing glance · recognition · mutual understanding · signal · go-ahead · complicit · understanding · tilt · consent · acceptance · deference · thumbs-up · respect