Interpreting someones folded arms requires understanding the context and other non-verbal cues.

Learn more about folded arms.

If so, youre not alone.

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There are over 50 different kinds of arm crosses.

Theres also arm crosses that close you down in negative situations as self-protection.

The list goes on and on.

Two people’s legs touch under a table as they work on their laptops.

etiquette expert, consultant, and speech-language pathologist

Heres what the experts have to say about the meaning behind folded arms.

To many, crossing arms just feels comfortable much like crossing legs when being seated does, she adds.

However, this may not be as true as the tween magazines of our youth led us to believe.

Books on grief are seen floating against a backdrop of clouds.

Heres what the experts say.

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But of course, as Hayes adds, sometimes people just fold their arms in public because theyre cold.

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After all, crossing your arms to serve as a little built-in vest to keep your organs warmispretty efficient.

This is especially true for people who may be anxious or dealing with social anxiety.

You might have to look at their other body language, say the experts.

Michelle Monaghan, Carrie Coon, and Leslie Bibb in The White Lotus, symbolizing toxic friendships.

etiquette expert, consultant, and speech-language pathologist

Body language is as powerful as verbal language, when it comes to interpersonal communication, says Hayes.

What is their facial expression telling you?

Are they smiling, frowning, fearful-looking?

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These facial expressions will help clue one into the reason for a persons folded arms, Hayes says.

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Courtesy Berkley Publishing