Meta-communication refers to the nonverbal messages, gestures, and tone of voice used to convey meaning during communication. Some synonyms for meta-communication include subtext, undertone, implied message, hidden meaning, and context. These words all refer to the underlying communication that may not be explicitly stated, but can still have a significant impact on the overall message being conveyed. Other related terms include body language, intonation, and facial expressions, which all play a role in meta-communication. Understanding meta-communication is important in effective communication, as it can provide insights into the speaker's intentions, emotions, and underlying attitudes.