How to Sign "H"
This word does not have a sign, it is a word that will need to be finger spelled. You can spell it out with each individual letter. (H)
Examples Using "H" in a Sentence
1
My name is Henry.
When fingerspelling a name like Henry, you will start by forming the letter 'H' before moving smoothly into the 'E'.
2
I need to go to the hospital.
The sign for 'hospital' actually incorporates the 'H' handshape, using it to trace a cross on your upper arm.
3
She is hard of hearing.
The sign for 'hard of hearing' uses the 'H' handshape, tapping your extended index and middle fingers in front of you.
How to Sign "H"
This word does not have a sign, it is a word that will need to be finger spelled. You can spell it out with each individual letter. (H)
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The 'H' handshape is visually motivated by the written alphabet. It resembles the two parallel vertical lines of the uppercase letter 'H' when viewed from the signer's perspective, though rotated horizontally.
Signing Tips
To form the letter 'H' clearly, extend your index and middle fingers together so they are pointing sideways, parallel to your chest. Keep your thumb tucked in and resting on your ring finger, and make sure your palm is facing toward your body. Keep your hand relaxed to avoid cramping.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is pointing the index and middle fingers straight forward toward the person you are signing to, instead of sideways. Another mistake is separating the index and middle fingers, which makes it look like a sideways 'V' instead of an 'H'.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "H" in a Sentence
1My name is Henry.
When fingerspelling a name like Henry, you will start by forming the letter 'H' before moving smoothly into the 'E'.
2I need to go to the hospital.
The sign for 'hospital' actually incorporates the 'H' handshape, using it to trace a cross on your upper arm.
3She is hard of hearing.
The sign for 'hard of hearing' uses the 'H' handshape, tapping your extended index and middle fingers in front of you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which way should my palm face for the letter H?
Your palm should face inward toward your own body. Your extended index and middle fingers will point horizontally across your chest.
What is the difference between 'H' and 'U'?
Both letters use the index and middle fingers extended and kept together. However, for 'U', your fingers point straight up with your palm facing outward. For 'H', your fingers point sideways with your palm facing inward.
Are there many signs that use the 'H' handshape?
Yes! The 'H' handshape is very common in ASL. It is used as the base handshape for many initialized signs, including 'hospital', 'history', 'hard', and 'hurry'.
ASL is a beautiful, expressive language. Practice regularly and have fun!