How to Sign "Boobs"
To sign 'boobs', cup the dominant hand slightly. Bring the hand up to the chest. Tap the fingertips against the non-dominant side of the chest, then bring the hand over to touch the dominant side.
Examples Using "Boobs" in a Sentence
1
The baby is drinking breast milk.
Sign 'baby', then use the sign for 'boobs' by tapping your cupped dominant hand on the non-dominant side of your chest, then the dominant side, followed by the sign for 'milk'.
2
Breast cancer awareness is important.
Use the sign for 'boobs' to indicate the anatomical location of the breast, followed by the signs for 'cancer', 'awareness', and 'important'.
3
My breasts are sore.
Point to yourself, sign 'boobs' using the gentle cupped-hand tapping motion across your chest, and then use the sign for 'hurt' or 'sore' near your chest area.
How to Sign "Boobs"
To sign 'boobs', cup the dominant hand slightly. Bring the hand up to the chest. Tap the fingertips against the non-dominant side of the chest, then bring the hand over to touch the dominant side.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is highly iconic and visually represents the anatomy it describes. The cupped handshape mimics the physical shape of a breast, and tapping both sides of the chest clearly indicates the location of the breasts on the body.
Signing Tips
Keep your hand shape relaxed and slightly cupped, similar to a loose 'C' handshape. The movement should be a gentle tap on each side of the chest. Make sure to start on the side opposite your dominant hand before moving to your dominant side to keep the motion fluid and natural.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is using a flat hand instead of a cupped hand, which can look like the sign for 'chest' or 'mine'. Another mistake is tapping too hard or using both hands simultaneously, which can look exaggerated. Stick to one hand tapping gently from the non-dominant to the dominant side.
Regional Variations
Some signers may use two cupped hands simultaneously placed over the chest instead of one hand moving from side to side, though the one-handed version is very common and widely understood.
Examples Using "Boobs" in a Sentence
1The baby is drinking breast milk.
Sign 'baby', then use the sign for 'boobs' by tapping your cupped dominant hand on the non-dominant side of your chest, then the dominant side, followed by the sign for 'milk'.
2Breast cancer awareness is important.
Use the sign for 'boobs' to indicate the anatomical location of the breast, followed by the signs for 'cancer', 'awareness', and 'important'.
3My breasts are sore.
Point to yourself, sign 'boobs' using the gentle cupped-hand tapping motion across your chest, and then use the sign for 'hurt' or 'sore' near your chest area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this sign considered inappropriate or vulgar?
No, in ASL, this is the standard, anatomical sign for breasts. It is used in medical contexts, such as discussing breast cancer or breastfeeding, as well as in casual conversation. It is a neutral, descriptive sign.
Can I use both hands to sign this?
While the variation taught here uses just your dominant hand moving from one side to the other, some signers do use both cupped hands simultaneously. However, sticking to the one-handed version is perfectly clear and standard.
How is this different from the sign for 'chest'?
The sign for 'chest' typically uses flat hands patting the chest or moving downward to outline the torso. The sign for 'boobs' specifically uses a cupped handshape to visually represent the shape of the breasts.
ASL is a beautiful, expressive language. Practice regularly and have fun!