Lessons
PocketSign
PocketSign

How to Sign "Grandpa"

With an open hand in a "5" handshape place the tip of the thumb to the forehead with the fingers pointing up. Bring the hand forward, away from the head making a single bounce along its path. Each bounce represents a generation, so "great grandpa" would be the same sign, but with a double bounce along the path of motion. Either hand can be used.

Examples Using "Grandpa" in a Sentence

1

My grandpa is visiting us today.

Sign 'MY', then sign 'GRANDPA' by placing the thumb of your open '5' hand on your forehead and bouncing it forward once. Follow with the signs for 'VISIT', 'US', and 'TODAY'.

2

I love my grandpa.

Point to yourself for 'I', cross your arms over your chest for 'LOVE', sign 'MY', and then execute the 'GRANDPA' sign starting from the forehead and bouncing outward.

3

Is your grandpa deaf?

Sign 'YOUR', then 'GRANDPA' with the single forward bounce from the forehead. Finish with 'DEAF' while raising your eyebrows and leaning forward slightly to indicate a yes/no question.

How to Sign "Grandpa"
With an open hand in a "5" handshape place the tip of the thumb to the forehead with the fingers pointing up. Bring the hand forward, away from the head making a single bounce along its path. Each bounce represents a generation, so "great grandpa" would be the same sign, but with a double bounce along the path of motion. Either hand can be used.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for 'grandpa' is deeply rooted in the visual logic of ASL family signs. In ASL, signs for male family members (like father, brother, and uncle) are traditionally placed near the forehead, representing the brim of a hat that men historically wore. The sign starts with the base sign for 'father' (the thumb of a '5' hand on the forehead) and moves outward with a bounce. This forward bouncing motion visually represents moving one generation forward in time or extending the family tree.
Signing Tips
To make your sign for 'grandpa' clear and natural, ensure your hand stays in a relaxed but distinct '5' handshape with your fingers spread. The movement should be a distinct, small arc or bounce moving forward from your forehead, rather than just sliding straight out. Keep your fingers pointing upward throughout the motion. Remember that the forehead placement is crucial, as signs located on the upper half of the face typically represent male figures in ASL.
Common Mistakes
A frequent mistake beginners make is starting the sign at the chin instead of the forehead, which changes the meaning to 'grandma.' Another common error is bouncing the hand too many times; a single bounce means 'grandpa,' while two bounces means 'great-grandpa.' Finally, be careful not to collapse your fingers. Keep your hand in a clear '5' handshape with the fingers extended and pointing up, rather than curling them inward as you move your hand forward.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Grandpa" in a Sentence
1

My grandpa is visiting us today.

Sign 'MY', then sign 'GRANDPA' by placing the thumb of your open '5' hand on your forehead and bouncing it forward once. Follow with the signs for 'VISIT', 'US', and 'TODAY'.

2

I love my grandpa.

Point to yourself for 'I', cross your arms over your chest for 'LOVE', sign 'MY', and then execute the 'GRANDPA' sign starting from the forehead and bouncing outward.

3

Is your grandpa deaf?

Sign 'YOUR', then 'GRANDPA' with the single forward bounce from the forehead. Finish with 'DEAF' while raising your eyebrows and leaning forward slightly to indicate a yes/no question.

Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the sign for grandpa start at the forehead?

In ASL, gender is often indicated by location. Signs for male family members, like father, boy, and grandpa, are formed on the upper half of the face (the forehead area). Signs for female family members are formed on the lower half (the chin area).

How do I sign 'great-grandpa'?

You use the exact same handshape and starting position as 'grandpa,' but you add an extra bounce. Start with your thumb on your forehead, bounce forward once for 'grandpa,' and then bounce forward a second time to add the 'great' generation.

Does it matter which hand I use to sign grandpa?

No, it does not matter! You can use either hand to sign 'grandpa.' Most signers use their dominant hand (the hand you write with) because it feels more natural and comfortable, but either hand is perfectly acceptable and understood.

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