Lessons
PocketSign
PocketSign

How to Sign "Gummy"

To sign 'gummy', start with both hands in front of your chest using modified 'G' or 'L' handshapes, where your index fingers and thumbs are extended and parallel. Position your hands close together as if you are pinching the ends of a small, chewy piece of candy. Keep your non-dominant hand mostly stationary as an anchor. Then, pull your dominant hand outward to the side, maintaining the space between your index finger and thumb. This visual motion perfectly mimics stretching something sticky, thick, and elastic.

Examples Using "Gummy" in a Sentence

1

I love eating gummy bears.

To express this, start by signing 'I', 'LOVE', and 'EAT'. Next, perform the stretching motion for 'GUMMY' to describe the texture. Finally, complete the phrase with the sign for 'BEAR' by crossing your arms and gently scratching your upper chest with clawed hands.

2

This candy is very gummy.

First, point to the candy to establish what you are talking about. Sign 'VERY', and then use a slow, exaggerated stretching motion for 'GUMMY'. Pulling your hand away slowly emphasizes the thick, chewy texture of the candy to your conversation partner.

3

Do you want a gummy worm?

Begin by signing 'YOU' and 'WANT'. Next, use the stretching motion for 'GUMMY', followed by the sign for 'WORM' (wiggling your index finger on your other palm). Remember to raise your eyebrows and lean forward slightly to indicate a yes/no question.

How to Sign "Gummy"
To sign 'gummy', start with both hands in front of your chest using modified 'G' or 'L' handshapes, where your index fingers and thumbs are extended and parallel. Position your hands close together as if you are pinching the ends of a small, chewy piece of candy. Keep your non-dominant hand mostly stationary as an anchor. Then, pull your dominant hand outward to the side, maintaining the space between your index finger and thumb. This visual motion perfectly mimics stretching something sticky, thick, and elastic.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is highly iconic and relies heavily on visual motivation. It directly represents the physical action of taking a sticky, elastic substance—such as a piece of gummy candy or taffy—and stretching it apart with your fingers. By showing the resistance and elasticity of the imaginary object between your hands, the sign naturally conveys the concept of a chewy, gummy texture without needing an English translation.
Signing Tips
To make your sign more expressive and natural, you can adjust the speed and intensity of the stretching motion. Pulling your dominant hand away slowly and with a bit of tension conveys that the object is extra sticky, thick, or tough to chew. Keeping your facial expressions engaged—perhaps by slightly squinting or mouthing a chewy action—can also help communicate the exact texture of the gummy item you are describing.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake beginners make is pulling both hands apart equally, which can look more like the sign for 'measure' or 'size'. Remember to keep your non-dominant hand relatively still as an anchor while only your dominant hand does the outward stretching motion. Additionally, be careful not to pinch your index finger and thumb completely closed; keeping them slightly apart shows the physical thickness of the gummy candy.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Gummy" in a Sentence
1

I love eating gummy bears.

To express this, start by signing 'I', 'LOVE', and 'EAT'. Next, perform the stretching motion for 'GUMMY' to describe the texture. Finally, complete the phrase with the sign for 'BEAR' by crossing your arms and gently scratching your upper chest with clawed hands.

2

This candy is very gummy.

First, point to the candy to establish what you are talking about. Sign 'VERY', and then use a slow, exaggerated stretching motion for 'GUMMY'. Pulling your hand away slowly emphasizes the thick, chewy texture of the candy to your conversation partner.

3

Do you want a gummy worm?

Begin by signing 'YOU' and 'WANT'. Next, use the stretching motion for 'GUMMY', followed by the sign for 'WORM' (wiggling your index finger on your other palm). Remember to raise your eyebrows and lean forward slightly to indicate a yes/no question.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use this sign for chewing gum?

No, chewing gum has its own specific sign, which typically involves twisting a bent index finger or a 'V' handshape against your cheek. The stretching sign you learned here is used specifically to describe gummy candies, fruit snacks, or anything with a thick, elastic, and chewy texture.

How do I sign 'gummy bear'?

You can easily create this by combining two separate signs. First, sign 'gummy' by performing the stretching motion with your hands. Immediately after, sign 'bear' by crossing your arms over your chest and scratching near your shoulders with clawed handshapes. It is a simple and fun compound sign!

Should my index finger and thumb touch when I pull my hand away?

No, it is best to keep your index finger and thumb slightly apart throughout the entire stretching motion. Leaving that small gap visually represents the physical thickness of the gummy object you are stretching. If you close your fingers completely, it might look like you are pulling a thin string.

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