Lessons
PocketSign
PocketSign

How to Sign "California"

Start by bringing your dominant hand up to the side of your face. Extend your index finger so it touches or hovers just next to your earlobe or upper cheek. Next, pull your hand outward and slightly downward away from your face. As you make this sweeping motion, smoothly change your handshape into a 'Y' by extending your thumb and pinky while curling your middle, ring, and index fingers inward.

Examples Using "California" in a Sentence

1

I want to visit California.

Sign 'I', 'want', and 'visit', then sign 'California' by touching your index finger near your earlobe and pulling away into a 'Y' handshape.

2

She lives in California.

Point to the person to sign 'she', sign 'live' by bringing both 'A' hands up your chest, and finish with the sign for 'California'.

3

California is very sunny.

Start with the sign for 'California', then sign 'very' and 'sunny' to describe the state's famous bright and warm weather.

How to Sign "California"
Start by bringing your dominant hand up to the side of your face. Extend your index finger so it touches or hovers just next to your earlobe or upper cheek. Next, pull your hand outward and slightly downward away from your face. As you make this sweeping motion, smoothly change your handshape into a 'Y' by extending your thumb and pinky while curling your middle, ring, and index fingers inward.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for California is deeply rooted in the state's history, specifically the famous 1849 California Gold Rush. In ASL, the sign for 'gold' starts by pointing to the earlobe—referencing gold earrings—and pulls away into a 'Y' handshape, which is often associated with the concept of 'yellow' or 'shining'. Because gold was so closely tied to the identity of the state during its early development, this exact same sign was adopted as the official name sign for California.
Signing Tips
When practicing the sign for California, focus on making the transition from the index finger to the 'Y' handshape smooth and fluid. The movement should be a single, continuous outward and slightly downward motion. Keep your facial expression relaxed and natural. Ensure that the 'Y' handshape is clearly formed at the end of the sign, with your thumb and pinky fully extended while the other fingers are tucked in. Practicing in front of a mirror can help you nail the starting placement near the ear.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake beginners make is starting the sign too low on the face, such as on the jawline or neck, instead of up near the earlobe or upper cheek. Another frequent error is forgetting to change into the 'Y' handshape at the end of the movement, or making the outward pull too stiff and robotic. The motion should feel like a natural, sweeping pull away from the face. Make sure your thumb and pinky are clearly visible at the end.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "California" in a Sentence
1

I want to visit California.

Sign 'I', 'want', and 'visit', then sign 'California' by touching your index finger near your earlobe and pulling away into a 'Y' handshape.

2

She lives in California.

Point to the person to sign 'she', sign 'live' by bringing both 'A' hands up your chest, and finish with the sign for 'California'.

3

California is very sunny.

Start with the sign for 'California', then sign 'very' and 'sunny' to describe the state's famous bright and warm weather.

Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the sign for California look exactly like the sign for gold?

The sign for California actually comes directly from the sign for 'gold'! This is a historical reference to the famous 1849 California Gold Rush. Both signs share the exact same movement from the earlobe into a 'Y' handshape.

Do I need to physically touch my ear?

You don't need to poke or firmly press your ear! A light touch or just bringing your index finger very close to your earlobe or upper cheek is perfectly fine before pulling your hand away.

Can I use my left hand if I am left-handed?

Yes, absolutely! You should always use your dominant hand for one-handed signs. If you are left-handed, simply start near your left earlobe and pull outward with your left hand.

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