shake one's head

present singular third person shakes one's head · participle present shaking one's head · past shook one's head · participle past shaken one's head

1. To move one's head from side to side, in a repeated swiveling motion from the neck, to indicate disagreement, negation, disbelief, disapproval or dismay.

   She was shaking her head no.

   3 more examples

   "An Indian lost in the woods!" said the scout, shaking his head doubtingly.

   1826, James Fenimore Cooper, chapter 4, in The Last of the Mohicans

   Mr. Brandon shook his head in despair at the unbusinesslike methods of his patron.

   1918, Edgar Wallace, chapter 7, in The Man Who Knew

   The Irishman, outstanding in the 2-0 victory over Wolves last week, limped off soon afterwards shaking his head and exchanging words with a section of Villa fans.

   2011 October 22, Sam Sheringham, “Aston Villa 1 - 2 West Brom”, in BBC Sport

2. uncommonTo move one's head up and down, in a repeated hinge-like motion from the top of the spine, to indicate agreement, affirmation, approval, or simply polite attentiveness.

   She listened with care, shaking her head in agreement from time to time.

   2005, Robert Silverberg, At Winter's End: The New Springtime, Volume 1, →ISBN, page 305

   Synonyms: nod