Lessons
PocketSign
PocketSign

How to Sign "Grandmother"

To sign grandmother, start by making an open "5" handshape with your dominant hand, keeping your fingers spread apart. Place the tip of your thumb against your chin, which is the base sign for mother. From there, move your hand forward away from your face in two small, distinct arches. This forward bouncing motion visually represents going one generation further back in your family tree.

Examples Using "Grandmother" in a Sentence

1

My grandmother is visiting us.

Start by signing "my" with a flat hand to your chest. Then, sign "grandmother" by tapping your thumb to your chin and bouncing it forward twice. Finish by signing "visit" and "us" to complete the thought.

2

I love my grandmother.

Point to yourself for "I", then cross your fists over your heart for "love". Next, sign "my", and finally perform the sign for "grandmother" by starting at your chin and moving your hand forward in two small arches.

3

Her grandmother makes the best cookies.

Sign "her" by pushing a flat hand toward the person you are referencing. Follow this with "grandmother", ensuring the double bounce is clear. Then, sign "make", "best", and "cookie" to finish the sentence.

How to Sign "Grandmother"
To sign grandmother, start by making an open "5" handshape with your dominant hand, keeping your fingers spread apart. Place the tip of your thumb against your chin, which is the base sign for mother. From there, move your hand forward away from your face in two small, distinct arches. This forward bouncing motion visually represents going one generation further back in your family tree.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for grandmother is a beautiful example of how ASL builds upon foundational vocabulary. In ASL, female-related signs are traditionally located on the lower half of the face, specifically around the chin or jawline. The sign starts with the exact same handshape and location as mother. The added forward bouncing motion is iconic, visually representing the passage of time and moving one generation back in your family's lineage.
Signing Tips
When signing grandmother, focus on making the forward bounces clear and distinct. Keep your fingers spread comfortably in the "5" handshape, and ensure your thumb makes light contact with your chin at the very beginning of the sign. The movement should come from your elbow and wrist, pushing slightly outward. Relax your hand so the motion looks natural rather than stiff, and remember to smile!
Common Mistakes
A common mistake beginners make is only moving the hand forward once, which can look like an exaggerated sign for mother or the sign for future. Another frequent error is starting the sign on the cheek or the forehead instead of the chin. Remember that in ASL, starting on the forehead changes the meaning to grandfather, so keeping your thumb anchored to your chin initially is crucial.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Grandmother" in a Sentence
1

My grandmother is visiting us.

Start by signing "my" with a flat hand to your chest. Then, sign "grandmother" by tapping your thumb to your chin and bouncing it forward twice. Finish by signing "visit" and "us" to complete the thought.

2

I love my grandmother.

Point to yourself for "I", then cross your fists over your heart for "love". Next, sign "my", and finally perform the sign for "grandmother" by starting at your chin and moving your hand forward in two small arches.

3

Her grandmother makes the best cookies.

Sign "her" by pushing a flat hand toward the person you are referencing. Follow this with "grandmother", ensuring the double bounce is clear. Then, sign "make", "best", and "cookie" to finish the sentence.

Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between mother and grandmother in ASL?

The sign for mother simply taps the thumb on the chin once or twice without moving away from the face. Grandmother starts with the thumb on the chin but adds two small forward bounces to indicate an older generation.

Does it matter which hand I use to sign grandmother?

Yes, you should always use your dominant hand to sign grandmother. If you are right-handed, use your right hand; if you are left-handed, use your left hand. Consistency with your dominant hand helps make your signing much clearer.

Why are female family signs located on the chin?

Historically, female signs in ASL were placed near the chin to represent the strings of the bonnets that women used to tie under their chins. Male signs are located near the forehead, representing the brims of hats.

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