What is haptics in nonverbal communication?

In nonverbal communication, haptics refers to communication through touch. This includes physical contact, such as a handshake, a hug, a pat on the back, or a touch on the arm.

These small physical cues can signal warmth, support, authority, or familiarity. Like most nonverbal signals, their meaning depends on context—especially the relationship between people and cultural norms around touch.

Curious how nonverbal cues vary across cultures? Ask QuillBot’s AI Chat and explore how the same signals can mean different things around the world.