In Italian, communication goes beyond mere verbalization and sentence construction. Words and sentences carry subtleties that often require physical expression. In some respects, Italians who cannot use their hands may find themselves rendered mute.

As you walk along the streets in Italy or even in the Little Italy neighborhoods of America, you’ll observe animated Italians constantly moving their hands and gesturing emphatically. You might see a cupped handshaking at the wrist, two palms coming together and moving harmoniously, or a hand flicking beneath the chin.