Lessons
PocketSign
PocketSign

How to Sign "Deposit"

To sign 'deposit', start by forming both hands into 'A' handshapes, which means making closed fists with your thumbs resting against the side of your index fingers. Hold both hands in front of your chest, keeping them a few inches apart with your palms facing each other. Next, move both hands downward simultaneously in a short, firm, and deliberate motion. The movement should stop abruptly, looking exactly as if you are firmly placing a stack of coins or a solid object down into a secure slot or bank account.

Examples Using "Deposit" in a Sentence

1

I need to deposit my paycheck today.

To sign this everyday phrase, start by pointing to yourself for 'I', sign 'need', and then use the firm, simultaneous downward 'A' handshapes for 'deposit'. Finish the sentence by signing 'paycheck' and 'today'. The firm motion of 'deposit' helps emphasize the completion of your banking errand.

2

Did you deposit the cash into the account?

Begin by raising your eyebrows to indicate a yes/no question. Point to the person for 'you', execute the downward motion for 'deposit', and then sign 'money' or 'cash'. Keep your eyebrows raised throughout the sentence to ensure the grammatical question structure is clear to the person watching.

3

The apartment requires a security deposit.

Start by signing 'apartment', then sign 'require' by pulling a 'C' handshape toward your chest. Finally, use the standard sign for 'deposit' with both 'A' handshapes moving downward. This shows that the sign isn't just for banks, but also for securing rentals or other major purchases.

How to Sign "Deposit"
To sign 'deposit', start by forming both hands into 'A' handshapes, which means making closed fists with your thumbs resting against the side of your index fingers. Hold both hands in front of your chest, keeping them a few inches apart with your palms facing each other. Next, move both hands downward simultaneously in a short, firm, and deliberate motion. The movement should stop abruptly, looking exactly as if you are firmly placing a stack of coins or a solid object down into a secure slot or bank account.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for 'deposit' is highly iconic and relies on a strong visual metaphor. The 'A' handshapes represent holding onto something solid and valuable, such as a thick stack of cash, coins, or important documents. The firm, simultaneous downward motion visually replicates the physical act of taking that valuable item and securely placing it down into a safe location, like a bank vault, a deposit box, or an official account. It perfectly captures the physical transfer of wealth.
Signing Tips
When practicing the sign for 'deposit', focus on making the downward movement crisp and intentional. The abrupt stop at the end of the motion is crucial because it emphasizes the finality of placing money into an account. Keep your 'A' handshapes tight and ensure your hands remain parallel to each other throughout the entire movement. Relax your shoulders and keep the motion contained comfortably in front of your torso rather than reaching too far down.
Common Mistakes
A very common mistake beginners make with this sign is using a motion that is too large, sweeping, or sloppy. The movement for 'deposit' should be relatively short and stop abruptly. Another frequent error is using relaxed hands instead of tight 'A' handshapes, which can make the sign look like you are just dropping something rather than intentionally securing a deposit. Make sure your thumbs stay tucked against the side of your fists.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Deposit" in a Sentence
1

I need to deposit my paycheck today.

To sign this everyday phrase, start by pointing to yourself for 'I', sign 'need', and then use the firm, simultaneous downward 'A' handshapes for 'deposit'. Finish the sentence by signing 'paycheck' and 'today'. The firm motion of 'deposit' helps emphasize the completion of your banking errand.

2

Did you deposit the cash into the account?

Begin by raising your eyebrows to indicate a yes/no question. Point to the person for 'you', execute the downward motion for 'deposit', and then sign 'money' or 'cash'. Keep your eyebrows raised throughout the sentence to ensure the grammatical question structure is clear to the person watching.

3

The apartment requires a security deposit.

Start by signing 'apartment', then sign 'require' by pulling a 'C' handshape toward your chest. Finally, use the standard sign for 'deposit' with both 'A' handshapes moving downward. This shows that the sign isn't just for banks, but also for securing rentals or other major purchases.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is this sign only used for banking and money?

While it is most commonly used for financial transactions like putting money into a bank account, it is also the correct sign for other types of deposits. For example, you would use this exact same sign when talking about putting down a security deposit for a new apartment or a rental car.

What is the difference between 'deposit' and 'put'?

Although they share a similar concept, the signs are different. The sign for 'put' generally uses flattened 'O' handshapes that move in a specific direction to show where an object is placed. 'Deposit' specifically uses 'A' handshapes moving firmly downward to represent securing funds or official items.

Do I need to mouth the word 'deposit' while signing it?

It is often helpful to gently mouth the word 'deposit' while signing, especially if the context of banking or finance hasn't been clearly established in your conversation yet. Mouthing the English word can provide extra clarity for the person you are chatting with and prevent any confusion.

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