How to Sign "Definition"
To sign 'definition', hold your non-dominant hand open and flat in front of you, with the fingers pointing up and the palm facing your dominant side. Form a 'D' handshape with your dominant hand by pointing your index finger up and touching your thumb to your curved middle, ring, and pinky fingers. Place the thumb and curved fingers of the 'D' handshape against the center of your non-dominant palm. Often, both hands will then move forward slightly together, as if presenting the definition to someone.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is a classic example of an initialized sign, where the first letter of the English word is incorporated into an existing ASL concept. It is based on the ASL sign for 'show'. The flat non-dominant hand visually represents a surface, page, or display. The dominant hand, forming the 'D' for 'definition', brings attention to that surface. Together, the visual logic conveys the idea of 'showing' or 'presenting' the specific meaning of a word to an audience.
Signing Tips
Focus on keeping your non-dominant hand firm and flat, acting as a clear base or 'page' for the sign. Make sure your dominant hand forms a crisp 'D' handshape, with the index finger pointing straight up and the other fingers forming a neat circle with the thumb. When you bring the hands together, the movement should be deliberate. If you include the slight forward motion, move both hands as a single unit to emphasize the concept of presenting information.
Common Mistakes
A frequent mistake beginners make is using a simple index finger instead of a full 'D' handshape on the dominant hand. Doing this changes the meaning entirely to the sign for 'show'. Another common error is letting the non-dominant hand collapse or tilt too far backward. It needs to remain flat and upright, resembling a piece of paper or a screen that is displaying the definition for everyone to see.
Regional Variations
Because this is an initialized sign, some Deaf individuals prefer to use the ASL sign for 'MEANING' (using a 'V' handshape twisting against the non-dominant palm) or 'EXPLAIN' (using 'F' handshapes moving back and forth). The initialized 'D' version is most common in educational or formal settings.
Examples Using "Definition" in a Sentence
1What is the definition of that word?
Point to the word or sign 'THAT WORD', then sign 'DEFINITION'. Remember to furrow your eyebrows and lean forward slightly at the end, as this is a 'wh-' question asking for specific information.
2The dictionary provides the definition.
Begin by signing 'DICTIONARY' (mimicking flipping the pages of a book). Then sign 'GIVE' or 'PROVIDE', followed by 'DEFINITION'. This sequence clearly establishes the source material before explaining exactly what information it offers.
3I need a clear definition.
Sign 'I', 'NEED', 'CLEAR' (with both hands starting together and moving outward while opening up), and finish with the sign for 'DEFINITION'. This is a highly useful phrase for a classroom setting when you want a better explanation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the sign for 'definition' the same as 'show'?
They are very similar, but not exactly the same! The sign for 'definition' is an initialized version of 'show'. While 'show' uses an open hand or just the index finger resting on the palm, 'definition' specifically requires the 'D' handshape to clarify that you mean the English word.
Can I use the sign for 'meaning' instead of 'definition'?
Yes, absolutely! In everyday conversational ASL, the sign for 'MEANING' is frequently used interchangeably with 'definition'. However, the initialized 'D' sign taught here is especially helpful in academic, classroom, or formal settings when you specifically want to translate the exact English word.
Should my hands move forward when signing this?
Yes, typically they do. After your dominant 'D' hand makes contact with your non-dominant palm, both hands often move forward slightly together. This forward motion mimics the idea of presenting or offering the definition to the person you are talking to.
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