How to Sign "Eating"
Similar to eating where you take your dominant hand and make an o shape and bring it to your mouth like a piece of food. Use both hands instead of just one and in a repeated motion.
Examples Using "Eating" in a Sentence
1
We are eating dinner together.
Sign 'we,' then use the two-handed repeated 'O' shape motion for 'eating,' followed by the signs for 'dinner' and 'together.' The two-handed motion beautifully emphasizes the shared, ongoing experience of the meal.
2
The kids are eating all the snacks.
After signing 'kids,' use the two-handed 'eating' sign to show they are actively and continuously snacking. The repeated motion of both hands perfectly captures the ongoing action of consuming a lot of food.
3
I love eating at that restaurant.
Sign 'I,' 'love,' and then use the two-handed 'eating' sign before pointing to or signing 'restaurant.' Using both hands adds a bit of emphasis to how much you enjoy the continuous experience of dining there.
How to Sign "Eating"
Similar to eating where you take your dominant hand and make an o shape and bring it to your mouth like a piece of food. Use both hands instead of just one and in a repeated motion.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is highly iconic, meaning it looks exactly like the action it represents in real life. The flattened 'O' handshape mimics holding a piece of food or a utensil. Bringing the hands to the mouth visually represents the act of putting food into your mouth. By using both hands in a repeated motion, the sign visually amplifies the action, painting a clear picture of continuous eating or enthusiastically chowing down.
Signing Tips
When performing this two-handed version of 'eating,' keep your movements rhythmic and natural. Your hands should form flattened 'O' shapes, with your fingertips touching your thumbs. Bring your fingertips close to your mouth, but you don't actually need to touch your lips. The repeated motion of both hands emphasizes the continuous action of eating, so let your facial expressions match the mood of the meal—whether it is a casual snack or a delicious feast!
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is using only one hand, which is the standard sign for 'eat' or 'food.' Since this specific variation requires both hands, make sure your non-dominant hand is just as active as your dominant one. Another mistake is making the motion too stiff or actually putting your fingers against your lips. Keep the movement slightly in front of your mouth.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Eating" in a Sentence
1We are eating dinner together.
Sign 'we,' then use the two-handed repeated 'O' shape motion for 'eating,' followed by the signs for 'dinner' and 'together.' The two-handed motion beautifully emphasizes the shared, ongoing experience of the meal.
2The kids are eating all the snacks.
After signing 'kids,' use the two-handed 'eating' sign to show they are actively and continuously snacking. The repeated motion of both hands perfectly captures the ongoing action of consuming a lot of food.
3I love eating at that restaurant.
Sign 'I,' 'love,' and then use the two-handed 'eating' sign before pointing to or signing 'restaurant.' Using both hands adds a bit of emphasis to how much you enjoy the continuous experience of dining there.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between using one hand and two hands for this sign?
Using one hand is the standard sign for 'eat' or 'food.' Using both hands in a repeated motion, as described here, emphasizes the continuous action of eating, eating a lot, or having a feast. It adds intensity and duration to the action.
Do my fingers need to physically touch my mouth?
No, your fingers do not need to physically touch your lips. Bringing your flattened 'O' handshapes very close to your mouth is perfectly clear. Touching your mouth repeatedly can feel awkward and isn't necessary for the sign to be understood.
Should my hands move at the exact same time or alternate?
You can do either, but alternating the hands in a repeated motion toward the mouth is very common for this two-handed variation. It creates a natural, flowing visual of continuously bringing food to your mouth, like you are chowing down.
ASL is a beautiful, expressive language. Practice regularly and have fun!