Lessons
PocketSign
PocketSign

How to Sign "Anniversary"

To sign 'anniversary,' form both hands into 'X' handshapes by curling your index fingers and tucking your thumbs over your other fingers. Hold both hands up near shoulder or head height, slightly out to the sides. Make small, continuous circular motions in the air with both hands, moving them simultaneously as if you are twirling small flags to celebrate.

Examples Using "Anniversary" in a Sentence

1

Today is our fifth wedding anniversary.

Sign 'today', 'our', 'fifth', 'wedding', and then use the celebratory circular motion with your 'X' handshapes for 'anniversary'.

2

Are you going to their anniversary party?

Point to 'them', sign 'anniversary' using the twirling 'X' handshapes, then sign 'party' while raising your eyebrows to ask a yes/no question.

3

Happy anniversary!

Sign 'happy' by brushing your flat hands upward on your chest, followed by the twirling 'X' handshapes for 'anniversary' with a bright, joyful facial expression.

How to Sign "Anniversary"
To sign 'anniversary,' form both hands into 'X' handshapes by curling your index fingers and tucking your thumbs over your other fingers. Hold both hands up near shoulder or head height, slightly out to the sides. Make small, continuous circular motions in the air with both hands, moving them simultaneously as if you are twirling small flags to celebrate.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for 'anniversary' is heavily based on the ASL concept of celebration and festivity. The hooked 'X' handshapes and the upward, circular twirling motion visually represent the act of waving small flags, streamers, or noisemakers in the air during a festive event or parade. By mimicking the physical actions of cheering and rejoicing, the sign perfectly captures the essence of a joyous occasion and the act of marking a special, recurring milestone in someone's life.
Signing Tips
When signing 'anniversary,' let your facial expression match the joyful nature of the word. Since an anniversary is a celebration, a bright smile and enthusiastic movement will make your sign look much more natural. Keep the circular motions relatively small and controlled near your shoulders, rather than making large, wide arm movements. The movement should feel light and festive, driven mostly by your wrists rather than your entire arm. This keeps the sign looking fluid and conversational rather than stiff.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake beginners make is using flat hands or 'A' handshapes instead of the 'X' handshapes shown in this specific variation. While initialized versions with an 'A' do exist, this version requires clearly hooked index fingers. Another frequent error is making the circular motions too large, rigid, or entirely from the elbows. The movement should be mostly in the wrists, keeping the upper arms relatively stable. Finally, don't forget your facial expression; signing a celebratory word with a blank face can confuse your listener.
Regional Variations
Some signers may initialize this sign by using 'A' handshapes (for the English word 'anniversary') while performing the exact same circular celebratory motion. However, the 'X' handshape variation shown here is widely understood and commonly used interchangeably with the sign for 'celebrate'.
Examples Using "Anniversary" in a Sentence
1

Today is our fifth wedding anniversary.

Sign 'today', 'our', 'fifth', 'wedding', and then use the celebratory circular motion with your 'X' handshapes for 'anniversary'.

2

Are you going to their anniversary party?

Point to 'them', sign 'anniversary' using the twirling 'X' handshapes, then sign 'party' while raising your eyebrows to ask a yes/no question.

3

Happy anniversary!

Sign 'happy' by brushing your flat hands upward on your chest, followed by the twirling 'X' handshapes for 'anniversary' with a bright, joyful facial expression.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is the sign for 'anniversary' the same as 'celebrate'?

Yes, in many contexts, the sign for 'anniversary' is identical to the sign for 'celebrate,' using the same 'X' handshapes and circular motions. The specific meaning is usually clear based on the context of your sentence.

Do the hands circle inward or outward?

The hands typically circle inward toward your head and then outward, but the exact direction can vary slightly among signers. Focus on a smooth, continuous twirling motion primarily driven by your wrists.

Can I use this sign for a work anniversary?

Absolutely! This sign is versatile and can be used for any type of anniversary, whether it is a wedding, a work milestone, or the anniversary of a special event. Just add the relevant context before the sign.

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