The paper presents a new way of accounting for the meaning of verbs in natural languages, using a diagrammatic notation based on the Unified Modeling Language (UML). We will introduce the new framework by outlining some model- ing elements and indicating major differences to the UML. An extended example will be dis- cussed in more detail. We will then focus on the cognitive background of the framework, and in particular address the question why the usage of graphical elements within a linguistic model- ing language proves to be very fruitful. Finally, we will briefly indicate the potential of the new framework and its applicability.