How to Sign "Fellow"

To sign *fellow*, start with your non-dominant hand in an 'L' handshape, with the index finger pointing up and the thumb pointing inward. Form an 'L' handshape with your dominant hand, with the thumb pointing up and the index finger pointing inward. Bring your hands together so that the tip of your dominant index finger touches the tip of your non-dominant thumb.

Examples Using "Fellow" in a Sentence

1

That fellow is my friend.

Sign 'THAT', followed by the sign for 'FELLOW', and then point to yourself and sign 'FRIEND'.

2

He is a smart fellow.

Point to the person to sign 'HE', sign 'SMART' by moving your middle finger from your forehead, and then sign 'FELLOW'.

3

I saw that fellow yesterday.

Start by signing 'YESTERDAY', point to yourself for 'I', sign 'SEE', and then sign 'THAT FELLOW'.

How to Sign "Fellow"
To sign *fellow*, start with your non-dominant hand in an 'L' handshape, with the index finger pointing up and the thumb pointing inward. Form an 'L' handshape with your dominant hand, with the thumb pointing up and the index finger pointing inward. Bring your hands together so that the tip of your dominant index finger touches the tip of your non-dominant thumb.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign uses two 'L' handshapes that connect to form a unified shape, visually representing a link or association between individuals, which aligns with the concept of a 'fellow' or peer.
Signing Tips
Focus on keeping your non-dominant hand steady while your dominant hand moves to make contact. Ensure both hands form clear 'L' handshapes, with the index finger of your non-dominant hand and the thumb of your dominant hand pointing straight up.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is using '1' handshapes (only the index fingers extended) instead of full 'L' handshapes. Make sure both your thumbs and index fingers are clearly extended to form the correct shape.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Fellow" in a Sentence
1

That fellow is my friend.

Sign 'THAT', followed by the sign for 'FELLOW', and then point to yourself and sign 'FRIEND'.

2

He is a smart fellow.

Point to the person to sign 'HE', sign 'SMART' by moving your middle finger from your forehead, and then sign 'FELLOW'.

3

I saw that fellow yesterday.

Start by signing 'YESTERDAY', point to yourself for 'I', sign 'SEE', and then sign 'THAT FELLOW'.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use this sign to mean 'guy' or 'man'?

While 'fellow' can mean 'guy' in English, ASL has specific, more common signs for 'guy' or 'man' (such as the '5' handshape moving from the forehead to the chest). This sign is more specific to the word 'fellow'.

Do both hands move when signing 'fellow'?

No, your non-dominant hand should remain stationary in front of you while your dominant hand moves to make contact with it.

What part of the hands should touch?

The tip of your dominant index finger should touch the tip of your non-dominant thumb, linking the two 'L' handshapes together.

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