The Moutza (MOOT-sah) is the most insulting hand signal among the Greeks. It consists of five spread fingers and an outstretched palm, facing the recipient, and is often accompanied by swearing. It dates to the Byzantine Empire, at which time criminals were paraded through town riding backwards on a donkey, their faces smeared with cinder (moútzos). Over time, other noxious substances were used (Yes, that!!!) for the smearing.
The closer the hand is shoved toward the face, the more threatening the gesture. A moutza can be doubled by using both hands. In this case, the second palm slaps into the back of the outward-most hand, making a clapping sound. If you want to wave or signal “five” in Greece, take care not to face the palm toward others, or keep all your fingers close together. Here’s a few others! The “Hook ’em horns” sign, with forefinger and pinkie extended, means that someone’s spouse is cheating on them. Our “OK” sign means “asshole” in Greece! It’s insulting to point at someone; that’s what you do with dogs. Extending the pinkie finger is a way of disparaging the size of someone’s genitalia. My favorite is this one: “Write it on my balls.”
Until next time!
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