The term cabeceo refers to the act of nodding the head, often as a form of greeting, agreement, or acknowledgment. In Argentine tango culture, cabeceo is also a common practice where dancers nod to signal an invitation to dance, serving as a subtle approach rather than direct verbal communication. The term is relatively common in casual and cultural contexts, especially within communities that engage in tango. It is often used more in oral contexts but can also be found in written discussions about dance or social practices.
In the milonga, nodding is the most elegant way to invite someone to dance.
Cuando se saludan, a menudo se hacen un cabeceo en lugar de un apretón de manos.
When they greet each other, they often nod instead of shaking hands.
Durante la reunión, el cabeceo de los asistentes indicaba su acuerdo con las propuestas.
The word cabeceo is sometimes used in various idiomatic expressions, especially in the cultural context of dance and social interactions:
To give a nod: It means to invite someone to dance with a head gesture.
Cabeceo de aprobación: Es un gesto que indica acuerdo o conformidad en una conversación.
Nod of approval: It is a gesture that indicates agreement or consent in a conversation.
Cabeceo y no palabras: Refleja la idea de que a veces un sencillo gesto es más elocuente que muchas palabras.
Nod and no words: Reflects the idea that sometimes a simple gesture is more eloquent than many words.
Hacer un cabeceo: Sugiere reconocer a alguien a distancia sin necesidad de hablar.
To make a nod: Suggests acknowledging someone from a distance without the need to speak.
Con un cabeceo, él contestó a la pregunta sin necesidad de hablar.
The word cabeceo comes from the Spanish verb cabecear, which means to shake the head or nod. The root cabeza means "head," which underlines the physical motion involved.