Italians are known for talking with their hands – and not just in Italy. We Italian Americans have carried on this same tradition. (And I have to think Italian-blooded people all over the world do the same!)

The gestures have some differences depending on who does them, and what they’re trying to express, and how old they are, and what part of the country they’re from – but many of the gestures have remained the same for many decades. (Probably even centuries!)

To demonstrate Italian hand gestures, here are a few videos. Because showing is better than telling.

This first one was produced by the American consultate in Italy, presumably to educate it’s diplomatic staff. “I am hungry, you are crazy!”

These next two guys had some fun showing a few variations of the same gestures. Can you spot the differences?

All of these videos have one thing in common: “the most powerful Italian gesture…”

“…the PINECONE HAND!”

If you use any of the hand language or gestures shown in the above videos, just make sure you use the right one for the right situations. (And especially be careful when using the umbrella gesture!)

See more:

American-Italian Sister Cities A Brief History of “Little Italies” Getting in Touch with Your Italian-American Identity