How to Sign "Circumcision"

To sign circumcision, hold your non-dominant hand in a '1' handshape with the index finger pointing straight up. Take your dominant hand in a 'G' handshape (with the index finger and thumb extended and slightly apart). Circle the index finger and thumb of your dominant hand around the very tip of your non-dominant index finger, mimicking a cutting motion.

Examples Using "Circumcision" in a Sentence

1

The doctor explained the circumcision procedure.

Sign 'doctor,' 'explain,' and then 'circumcision' by circling your dominant 'G' handshape around the tip of your stationary non-dominant index finger.

2

Is circumcision common in your culture?

Sign 'circumcision,' 'common,' 'your,' 'culture,' and remember to raise your eyebrows at the end of the sentence to indicate a yes/no question.

3

They decided against circumcision for their baby.

Sign 'their,' 'baby,' 'circumcision,' and then shake your head while signing 'decide no' to show that they opted out of the procedure.

How to Sign "Circumcision"
To sign circumcision, hold your non-dominant hand in a '1' handshape with the index finger pointing straight up. Take your dominant hand in a 'G' handshape (with the index finger and thumb extended and slightly apart). Circle the index finger and thumb of your dominant hand around the very tip of your non-dominant index finger, mimicking a cutting motion.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is highly visual and iconic. The upright non-dominant index finger represents the male anatomy, while the dominant hand's circling motion visually mimics the medical procedure of removing the foreskin from the tip.
Signing Tips
Keep your non-dominant index finger completely steady while your dominant hand does all the moving. Make sure the circling motion stays right at the tip of the finger rather than moving down the length of it.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is circling the entire non-dominant finger instead of just the tip. Remember that the sign specifically refers to the tip, so keep the movement of your dominant hand localized to the very top.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Circumcision" in a Sentence
1

The doctor explained the circumcision procedure.

Sign 'doctor,' 'explain,' and then 'circumcision' by circling your dominant 'G' handshape around the tip of your stationary non-dominant index finger.

2

Is circumcision common in your culture?

Sign 'circumcision,' 'common,' 'your,' 'culture,' and remember to raise your eyebrows at the end of the sentence to indicate a yes/no question.

3

They decided against circumcision for their baby.

Sign 'their,' 'baby,' 'circumcision,' and then shake your head while signing 'decide no' to show that they opted out of the procedure.

Frequently Asked Questions
Does it matter which hand is the stationary finger?

Yes, you should use your non-dominant hand as the stationary '1' handshape and your dominant hand to perform the circling motion. This follows the standard ASL rule where the dominant hand performs the primary action.

Should the dominant hand touch the non-dominant finger?

It can lightly brush against it or hover just barely around the tip of the non-dominant index finger. The most important part is the clear, circular motion around the very top.

Is this considered a medical sign or an everyday sign?

It is both! This is the standard ASL sign used in casual conversations about parenting and culture, as well as in formal medical or educational settings.

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