How to Sign "Deaf"
to sign 'deaf', make a fist with the hand but leave the index finger extended. press the index finger against the ear, then drag it down the face to tap the corner of the mouth on the same side.
Examples Using "Deaf" in a Sentence
1
I am deaf.
Point to your chest with your index finger to sign 'I', then use that same index finger to sign 'deaf' by touching your ear and dragging it to your mouth.
2
Are you deaf?
Point to the person you are talking to for 'you', sign 'deaf' from your ear to your mouth, and make sure to raise your eyebrows to show you are asking a yes/no question.
3
She is a proud Deaf woman.
Point to the person for 'she', sign 'proud' by drawing your thumb up your chest, sign 'deaf' using the index finger motion down the face, and then sign 'woman' by tapping your thumb from your chin to your chest.
How to Sign "Deaf"
to sign 'deaf', make a fist with the hand but leave the index finger extended. press the index finger against the ear, then drag it down the face to tap the corner of the mouth on the same side.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for 'deaf' is highly visual and iconic. By pointing to the ear and then to the mouth, the sign historically references the connection between hearing and spoken language, highlighting the two areas most traditionally associated with the Deaf experience.
Signing Tips
Keep your hand relaxed but ensure your index finger is straight and clear. When you drag your finger down your face, keep the contact light so you don't pull on your skin. The movement should be a smooth, continuous line from the ear to the mouth. Always use your dominant hand for this sign.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake for beginners is using the whole hand or multiple fingers instead of isolating just the index finger. Make sure your hand remains in a firm fist with only the '1' handshape extended. Another mistake is hovering the finger in the air; ensure you are actually making light contact with your face.
Regional Variations
While the standard sign taught here moves from the ear to the mouth, you will frequently see native signers reverse the motion, moving from the mouth to the ear. Both directions are widely accepted and understood throughout the Deaf community.
Examples Using "Deaf" in a Sentence
1I am deaf.
Point to your chest with your index finger to sign 'I', then use that same index finger to sign 'deaf' by touching your ear and dragging it to your mouth.
2Are you deaf?
Point to the person you are talking to for 'you', sign 'deaf' from your ear to your mouth, and make sure to raise your eyebrows to show you are asking a yes/no question.
3She is a proud Deaf woman.
Point to the person for 'she', sign 'proud' by drawing your thumb up your chest, sign 'deaf' using the index finger motion down the face, and then sign 'woman' by tapping your thumb from your chin to your chest.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does it matter which hand I use to sign 'deaf'?
You should use your dominant hand. If you are right-handed, use your right index finger and touch the right side of your face. If you are left-handed, use your left hand on the left side of your face.
Do I need to physically touch my face?
Yes, it is best to make light physical contact. Gently press near your ear, then lightly drag your finger to tap near the corner of your mouth. You don't need to press hard, but the contact makes the sign clear.
What if I accidentally go from my mouth to my ear?
Don't worry! Moving from the mouth to the ear is actually a very common and accepted variation of the sign in ASL. However, as a beginner, it is great practice to master the ear-to-mouth direction first.
ASL is a beautiful, expressive language. Practice regularly and have fun!