How to Sign "Bro"

To sign 'bro' (which is the same as the sign for 'brother'), start by forming an 'L' shape with your dominant hand and place the tip of your thumb against your forehead. Hold your non-dominant hand in front of your chest with the index finger pointing forward. Bring your dominant hand down to rest on top of your non-dominant hand, so both index fingers are pointing forward together.

Examples Using "Bro" in a Sentence

1

He is my bro.

Point to the person, sign 'my' by placing your flat hand on your chest, and then use the sign for 'bro' starting at your forehead.

2

What's up, bro?

Sign 'what's up' by brushing your middle fingers upward on your chest, then sign 'bro' to greet your friend.

3

My bro is very tall.

Sign 'my', then 'bro', and finally sign 'tall' by raising your dominant hand high up to indicate height.

How to Sign "Bro"
To sign 'bro' (which is the same as the sign for 'brother'), start by forming an 'L' shape with your dominant hand and place the tip of your thumb against your forehead. Hold your non-dominant hand in front of your chest with the index finger pointing forward. Bring your dominant hand down to rest on top of your non-dominant hand, so both index fingers are pointing forward together.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is a combination of the ASL male marker (signs placed at the forehead) and the concept of 'same' or 'matching' (bringing the two index fingers together), symbolizing a male sibling.
Signing Tips
Make sure the movement from your forehead down to your non-dominant hand is one smooth, continuous motion. Keep your non-dominant hand steady as a base.
Common Mistakes
A frequent mistake is starting the sign at the chin instead of the forehead. Starting at the chin changes the meaning to 'sister' because female signs are located on the lower half of the face.
Regional Variations
While the standard sign for 'brother' is most commonly used, in casual slang, some younger signers may simply fingerspell B-R-O quickly.
Examples Using "Bro" in a Sentence
1

He is my bro.

Point to the person, sign 'my' by placing your flat hand on your chest, and then use the sign for 'bro' starting at your forehead.

2

What's up, bro?

Sign 'what's up' by brushing your middle fingers upward on your chest, then sign 'bro' to greet your friend.

3

My bro is very tall.

Sign 'my', then 'bro', and finally sign 'tall' by raising your dominant hand high up to indicate height.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'bro' signed the exactly same way as 'brother'?

Yes, in ASL, the standard sign for 'brother' is typically used to mean 'bro'. You don't need a separate sign, though some people might fingerspell B-R-O in very casual slang contexts.

Why does the sign start at the forehead?

In ASL, the face is divided into gendered zones. Signs related to males (like father, boy, and brother) are placed near the forehead, while female signs (like mother, girl, and sister) are placed near the chin.

Does it matter which hand is on top?

Yes, your dominant hand should be the one doing the moving. It starts at your forehead and comes down to rest on top of your stationary non-dominant hand.

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