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How to Sign "Dishwasher"

To sign 'dishwasher', you will combine two highly visual concepts: 'dish' and 'wash'. Start by bringing both hands in front of you with curved index fingers and thumbs, touching them together and then pulling them apart horizontally to outline the shape of a round plate. Next, hold your non-dominant hand flat with the palm facing up. Form your dominant hand into a 'C' shape and rub it in a circular motion over your flat non-dominant palm, as if you are scrubbing a dish clean.

Examples Using "Dishwasher" in a Sentence

1

I need to empty the dishwasher.

Sign 'I', 'need', 'empty', and then perform the 'dishwasher' sign by outlining the plate and scrubbing your palm. Context will make it clear you are referring to the appliance.

2

The dishwasher is broken.

Start with the sign for 'dishwasher', then sign 'broken' by holding both hands in front of you as if grasping a stick and making a sudden snapping motion downward.

3

Please load the dishwasher.

Sign 'please', then 'put-in' by moving your dominant hand into your non-dominant 'C' shaped hand, followed by the 'dishwasher' sign to show where the items are going.

How to Sign "Dishwasher"
To sign 'dishwasher', you will combine two highly visual concepts: 'dish' and 'wash'. Start by bringing both hands in front of you with curved index fingers and thumbs, touching them together and then pulling them apart horizontally to outline the shape of a round plate. Next, hold your non-dominant hand flat with the palm facing up. Form your dominant hand into a 'C' shape and rub it in a circular motion over your flat non-dominant palm, as if you are scrubbing a dish clean.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is a wonderful example of a compound sign that relies on visual, iconic motivation. The first part of the sign physically outlines the round shape of a dish or plate in the air. The second part directly mimics the real-world action of holding a plate in one hand and scrubbing it clean with a sponge in the other.
Signing Tips
When signing 'dishwasher', focus on making the two parts of the sign distinct but fluid. Ensure the circular scrubbing motion for the 'wash' portion rests clearly on your non-dominant palm. This specific 'wash' motion visually implies washing a hard surface like a plate, which helps distinguish it from other types of washing.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake beginners make is using the general sign for 'washing clothes' (twisting both 'A' hands together) instead of the specific scrubbing motion used for washing dishes. It is important to remember to use the 'C' handshape rubbing on a flat palm, as ASL uses different signs for washing depending on the object.
Regional Variations
Some signers may add the sign for 'machine' (interlocking the curved fingers of both hands and moving them up and down) at the end of the sequence to specifically denote the appliance, though 'dish' plus 'wash' is widely understood.
Examples Using "Dishwasher" in a Sentence
1

I need to empty the dishwasher.

Sign 'I', 'need', 'empty', and then perform the 'dishwasher' sign by outlining the plate and scrubbing your palm. Context will make it clear you are referring to the appliance.

2

The dishwasher is broken.

Start with the sign for 'dishwasher', then sign 'broken' by holding both hands in front of you as if grasping a stick and making a sudden snapping motion downward.

3

Please load the dishwasher.

Sign 'please', then 'put-in' by moving your dominant hand into your non-dominant 'C' shaped hand, followed by the 'dishwasher' sign to show where the items are going.

Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to add the sign for 'machine' at the end?

While some signers add the sign for 'machine' to be very specific about the kitchen appliance, signing 'dish' followed by 'wash' is extremely common and perfectly understood in context to mean the dishwasher.

Can I use this exact sign to mean 'washing the dishes'?

Yes! The sequence of 'dish' and 'wash' can function as both the noun for the appliance and the verb phrase for the chore. The meaning is usually made clear by the context of your sentence.

Why is the 'wash' sign different here than the one for laundry?

ASL is a highly visual language that mimics real-world actions. Washing clothes involves a twisting, churning motion, while washing dishes involves scrubbing a flat surface. The sign changes to match the physical action being performed.

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