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PocketSign
PocketSign

How to Sign "Clock"

To sign "clock", you will combine two distinct movements. First, tap the back of your non-dominant wrist with your dominant index finger, which is the standard sign for "time". Next, bring both hands up in front of your body and form "C" handshapes. Hold these "C" hands facing forward and slightly apart to outline the round, physical shape of a clock hanging on a wall. Make sure the transition between tapping your wrist and forming the clock face is smooth.

Examples Using "Clock" in a Sentence

1

Look at the clock.

To sign this, point to your eyes and then point toward an imaginary clock on the wall. Finish by signing "clock", tapping your wrist and showing the round shape.

2

The clock is broken.

First, sign "clock" by tapping your wrist and forming the "C" handshapes. Then, use both hands in "S" handshapes to make a snapping motion, as if you are breaking a stick in half.

3

We need a new clock.

Sign "we" by moving your index finger from one shoulder to the other. Then sign "need" with an "X" handshape moving down, "new" by scooping one hand over the other, and finally "clock".

How to Sign "Clock"
To sign "clock", you will combine two distinct movements. First, tap the back of your non-dominant wrist with your dominant index finger, which is the standard sign for "time". Next, bring both hands up in front of your body and form "C" handshapes. Hold these "C" hands facing forward and slightly apart to outline the round, physical shape of a clock hanging on a wall. Make sure the transition between tapping your wrist and forming the clock face is smooth.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for "clock" is a wonderful example of a compound sign in ASL, where two concepts merge to create a new meaning. It combines the abstract concept of "time"—indicated by tapping the wrist where a person traditionally wears a watch—with a visual classifier. The "C" handshapes act as a size and shape specifier (SASS), physically outlining the round face of a traditional wall clock. Together, they visually and logically communicate a "time-telling circle".
Signing Tips
When signing "clock", focus on the smooth transition between the two parts of the compound sign. Make sure the initial tap on your wrist is clear but brief, so it flows naturally into the "C" handshapes. Keep your facial expression neutral unless you are conveying a specific emotion about the time. Additionally, ensure your "C" handshapes are held up high enough at chest or face level to accurately represent a clock mounted on a wall, rather than down low.
Common Mistakes
A frequent mistake beginners make is forgetting the first part of the sign—tapping the wrist—and only showing the round shape. Without the "time" indicator, the "C" handshapes might be confused with other round objects like a plate, a bowl, or a ball. Another common error is making the "C" shapes too small or holding them too low. Remember, you are visually representing a large wall clock, so the shape should be distinct, clearly rounded, and held up visibly.
Regional Variations
While the wrist-tap followed by "C" handshapes is standard, some signers may trace a full circle in the air with their index fingers after tapping their wrist to emphasize the round face. Others might simply sign "time" and point to a clock on the wall.
Examples Using "Clock" in a Sentence
1

Look at the clock.

To sign this, point to your eyes and then point toward an imaginary clock on the wall. Finish by signing "clock", tapping your wrist and showing the round shape.

2

The clock is broken.

First, sign "clock" by tapping your wrist and forming the "C" handshapes. Then, use both hands in "S" handshapes to make a snapping motion, as if you are breaking a stick in half.

3

We need a new clock.

Sign "we" by moving your index finger from one shoulder to the other. Then sign "need" with an "X" handshape moving down, "new" by scooping one hand over the other, and finally "clock".

Frequently Asked Questions
Is the sign for "clock" the same as "time"?

They are related but distinct. "Time" consists only of tapping the wrist. "Clock" is a compound sign that adds a second part, where you use "C" handshapes to show the physical, round shape of a wall clock.

Do I use this sign to talk about a wristwatch?

No, this specific sign refers to a wall or desk clock. For a wristwatch, you typically just tap your wrist (like the sign for "time") or use an "F" handshape over your wrist to show the watch band.

Does it matter which wrist I tap for the first part of the sign?

Yes, you should always tap your non-dominant wrist with your dominant index finger. This mimics the traditional, real-world placement of wearing a watch on the non-dominant arm to keep your dominant hand free.

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