Lessons
PocketSign
PocketSign

How to Sign "Aging"

To sign 'aging,' start with your dominant hand in a 'C' shape placed right at your chin. Pull your hand downward toward your chest while simultaneously closing your fingers into an 'S' fist. The motion should look just like you are pulling down on a long, imaginary beard.

Examples Using "Aging" in a Sentence

1

My dog is aging quickly.

Sign 'DOG', then use the sign for 'aging' by pulling down from the chin. You can perform the movement slightly slower to emphasize the ongoing process of getting older.

2

Aging is a natural part of life.

You can start this sentence with the sign for 'aging,' followed by the signs for 'NATURAL' and 'LIFE' to convey the full concept.

3

The aging building needs repairs.

Sign 'BUILDING' then 'AGING' to describe its older condition, followed by the signs for 'NEED' and 'FIX'.

How to Sign "Aging"
To sign 'aging,' start with your dominant hand in a 'C' shape placed right at your chin. Pull your hand downward toward your chest while simultaneously closing your fingers into an 'S' fist. The motion should look just like you are pulling down on a long, imaginary beard.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for 'aging' shares its root with the ASL sign for 'old.' It is a highly iconic sign that visually represents grabbing and pulling a long, flowing beard. Historically, long beards have been a universal symbol of wisdom, the passage of time, and old age. By mimicking this action, the sign creates an immediate visual connection to the concept of growing older.
Signing Tips
When signing 'aging,' focus on making the handshape transition smooth. Start with a clear 'C' shape at the chin and end with a solid 'S' fist at the bottom of the movement. If you want to emphasize the continuous process of getting older, you can perform the downward pulling motion a bit more slowly and deliberately than you would for the simple word 'old.'
Common Mistakes
A frequent mistake beginners make is starting the sign too high on the face, such as near the mouth or nose. Always anchor the starting position at the tip of your chin. Additionally, some learners forget to close their hand into an 'S' fist at the end of the movement, leaving their hand open, which can confuse the meaning.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Aging" in a Sentence
1

My dog is aging quickly.

Sign 'DOG', then use the sign for 'aging' by pulling down from the chin. You can perform the movement slightly slower to emphasize the ongoing process of getting older.

2

Aging is a natural part of life.

You can start this sentence with the sign for 'aging,' followed by the signs for 'NATURAL' and 'LIFE' to convey the full concept.

3

The aging building needs repairs.

Sign 'BUILDING' then 'AGING' to describe its older condition, followed by the signs for 'NEED' and 'FIX'.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is the sign for 'aging' the same as 'old'?

Yes, they use the exact same root sign! To show the ongoing process of 'aging,' signers often perform the movement a bit slower or with a slight, deliberate drag compared to a quick, single pull used for 'old.'

Do I use one hand or two hands for this sign?

This is a one-handed sign. You should use your dominant hand to perform the downward pulling motion from your chin.

Does my hand need to physically touch my chin?

Your hand doesn't need to press hard against your face, but your thumb and index finger should lightly touch or be extremely close to the tip of your chin as you form the initial 'C' shape.

ASL is a beautiful, expressive language. Practice regularly and have fun!