Final answer:
Nonverbal communication refers to the various gestures, facial expressions, and body positions that convey messages without spoken language, which are often culturally learned and can vary widely among different societies.
Step-by-step explanation:
While avoiding using the hand and/or arm to make physical contact without holding on to the person refers to nonverbal communication. This form of communication is symbolic and much of it is learned through cultural norms. It encompasses a variety of gestures and expressions that convey messages without the use of spoken language.
Key aspects of nonverbal communication include personal space, which varies by culture, and the traditional act of shaking hands, which has evolved especially due to events like the COVID-19 pandemic. People also depend on these nonverbal cues to understand when to perform certain social actions or how to participate in conversations.