How to Sign "Blonde"

To sign 'blonde', form a 'Y' handshape with your dominant hand by extending your thumb and pinky finger while keeping your other fingers curled. Start by touching the tip of your thumb to the side of your head, near your hair. Then, pull your hand downward in a smooth motion to about shoulder or chest level.

Examples Using "Blonde" in a Sentence

1

She has blonde hair.

Point to the person you are talking about, then sign BLONDE. You do not need to add the sign for HAIR, as it is already implied by the location of the sign.

2

My sister is blonde.

Sign MY by placing your flat hand on your chest, sign SISTER, and finish with the sign for BLONDE starting at the side of your head.

3

I want to dye my hair blonde.

Sign I, WANT, HAIR, DYE, and then BLONDE. Make sure to clearly form the 'Y' handshape as you pull your hand down from your head.

How to Sign "Blonde"
To sign 'blonde', form a 'Y' handshape with your dominant hand by extending your thumb and pinky finger while keeping your other fingers curled. Start by touching the tip of your thumb to the side of your head, near your hair. Then, pull your hand downward in a smooth motion to about shoulder or chest level.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is a great example of how ASL combines concepts. It blends the location for 'hair' (the side of the head) with the 'Y' handshape traditionally used for the color 'yellow'. By moving the 'yellow' handshape down from the head, it creates a visual representation of yellow-colored hair.
Signing Tips
Focus on making a clear 'Y' handshape with your dominant hand. It is crucial to make physical contact with the side of your head at the beginning of the sign, as this anchors the context to your hair. When you pull your hand downward, keep the motion smooth and deliberate.
Common Mistakes
Beginners often forget to touch their head and simply shake the 'Y' handshape in front of them. While this means 'yellow', it doesn't convey 'blonde' hair. Another mistake is using the wrong handshape; ensure only your thumb and pinky are extended.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Blonde" in a Sentence
1

She has blonde hair.

Point to the person you are talking about, then sign BLONDE. You do not need to add the sign for HAIR, as it is already implied by the location of the sign.

2

My sister is blonde.

Sign MY by placing your flat hand on your chest, sign SISTER, and finish with the sign for BLONDE starting at the side of your head.

3

I want to dye my hair blonde.

Sign I, WANT, HAIR, DYE, and then BLONDE. Make sure to clearly form the 'Y' handshape as you pull your hand down from your head.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is the sign for 'blonde' the same as the sign for 'yellow'?

They are related but distinct. Both use the 'Y' handshape, but 'yellow' is signed by shaking the hand in a neutral space in front of your body. 'Blonde' must start with the thumb touching the side of the head to indicate hair.

Do I need to sign 'hair' along with 'blonde'?

No, you generally do not need to sign 'hair' separately. Because the sign for 'blonde' originates at the head, the concept of hair is already built into the sign's meaning.

Can I use this sign for a blonde animal, like a golden retriever?

This specific sign is typically reserved for human hair. When describing an animal with blonde or golden fur, it is more appropriate to sign the animal and then use the standard sign for the color 'yellow' or 'gold'.

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