Emily Dickinson Lexicon

beckon (beckoned, -s), v. [OE bíecnan.] (webplay: finger, nodding).

1. Wave; signal with the hand; motion to come near; command to approach with gesture of a finger; (see Luke 5:7); [word play on “beck”] move like a stream; flow like a brook.
2. Move; bow the head; make gestures; silently command; give mute signs (see Luke 1:22); [fig.] give a signal for an orchestra to begin playing music.
3. Carry; convey; physically sweep; transport by water currents.
4. Call; invite; attract; summon; bid to participate.