non-verbal communication

Definition 1

Larger, non-spoken context within which all face-to-face communication takes place. Every conscious or subconscious behavior in presence of another is suffused with meaning without which all verbal communication would be ambiguous. Non-verbal communication includes pitch, speed, tone and volume of voice, gestures and facial expressions, body posture, stance, and proximity to the listener, eye movements and contact, and dress and appearance. Research suggests that only 5 percent effect is produced by the spoken word, 45 percent by the tone, inflexion, and other elements of voice, and 50 percent by body language, movements, eye contact, etc.

Definition 2

Transmission of messages by a medium other than speech or writing.