finger-wag

English

verb
Definitions
  • To move the index finger horizontally back and forth, as to say no or reject something.
  • To move the index finger repeatedly up and down, as to threaten or reprimand someone.

Etymology

Compound from English finger + English wag (rogue, waghalter).

Origin

English

wag

Gloss

rogue, waghalter

Timeline

Distribution of cognates by language

Geogrpahic distribution of cognates

Cognates and derived terms