How to Sign "Dreams"

To sign 'dreams', start by placing the tip of your dominant index finger against your forehead. Next, move your hand outward and slightly upward away from your head. As your hand moves, repeatedly bend and straighten your index finger. The motion should look like a thought or image floating up and away from your mind.

Examples Using "Dreams" in a Sentence

1

I had a weird dream last night.

Sign 'dream' by moving your wiggling index finger away from your forehead, then follow with the signs for 'weird' and 'last night'.

2

My dream is to travel the world.

Use the sign for 'dream' to indicate your life aspiration, followed by the signs for 'travel' and 'world'.

3

Follow your dreams.

Sign 'follow' and then 'dreams', emphasizing the fluid, upward and outward motion of your index finger to show ongoing aspirations.

How to Sign "Dreams"
To sign 'dreams', start by placing the tip of your dominant index finger against your forehead. Next, move your hand outward and slightly upward away from your head. As your hand moves, repeatedly bend and straighten your index finger. The motion should look like a thought or image floating up and away from your mind.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign originates at the forehead, which is the standard location for ASL signs related to the mind, thoughts, and cognitive processes. The wiggling, upward movement of the finger visually represents an idea, thought, or image floating out of the mind, much like a thought bubble appearing in a comic strip.
Signing Tips
Make sure the movement of your hand goes outward and upward, rather than just straight out. This helps visually represent a dream floating up like a thought bubble. Keep the bending and unbending of your index finger fluid and continuous as your hand travels away from your head.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is using the whole hand or wiggling multiple fingers instead of just the index finger. Make sure your other fingers remain curled in. Another mistake is keeping the hand stationary on the forehead; the outward and upward path is essential to the sign.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Dreams" in a Sentence
1

I had a weird dream last night.

Sign 'dream' by moving your wiggling index finger away from your forehead, then follow with the signs for 'weird' and 'last night'.

2

My dream is to travel the world.

Use the sign for 'dream' to indicate your life aspiration, followed by the signs for 'travel' and 'world'.

3

Follow your dreams.

Sign 'follow' and then 'dreams', emphasizing the fluid, upward and outward motion of your index finger to show ongoing aspirations.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is the sign for 'dream' the same as 'idea'?

No, they are different. 'Idea' typically uses an 'I' handshape (with the pinky extended) moving outward from the forehead, while 'dream' uses the index finger bending and unbending as it moves away.

Do I need to use both hands to sign 'dreams'?

No, 'dreams' is a one-handed sign. You only need to use your dominant hand to perform the motion from your forehead.

Can this sign be used for both sleeping dreams and life goals?

Yes! The sign for 'dream' is versatile. It can be used to talk about the literal dreams you have while sleeping, as well as your aspirations, hopes, and long-term goals for the future.

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