Lessons
PocketSign
PocketSign

How to Sign "Hearing"

With either hand, form a "one" handshape and place the index finger horizontally in front of the lips with the palm facing the body and move in a small circular motion several times by going up and away from the body and then down and back toward the body.

Examples Using "Hearing" in a Sentence

1

Are you deaf or hearing?

To sign this, you would sign 'DEAF', then use the 'one' handshape rolling horizontally in front of your lips to sign 'HEARING'. Remember to raise your eyebrows and lean forward slightly, as this is a yes/no question.

2

My parents are hearing.

Start by signing 'MY' and 'PARENTS'. Then, finish the sentence by placing your horizontal index finger in front of your mouth and making the small, forward-rolling circular motion to sign 'HEARING'.

3

I am a hearing person.

Point to yourself for 'I', then perform the 'HEARING' sign by tumbling your horizontal index finger in front of your lips. You do not need to add a separate sign for 'person', as 'HEARING' implies a hearing individual in this context.

How to Sign "Hearing"
With either hand, form a "one" handshape and place the index finger horizontally in front of the lips with the palm facing the body and move in a small circular motion several times by going up and away from the body and then down and back toward the body.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign visually represents the act of speaking. The horizontal index finger tumbling in a circular motion in front of the lips mimics words continuously rolling out of the mouth. Because hearing people traditionally communicate primarily through spoken language, this visual metaphor became the standard ASL sign for a hearing person.
Signing Tips
Focus on keeping the circular motion small, relaxed, and contained right in front of your lips. Your index finger should be horizontal, parallel to your mouth, rather than pointing at it. The movement should feel like a continuous, smooth tumble forward, representing spoken words rolling out.
Common Mistakes
A frequent beginner mistake is making the circles too large or rigid, which can look unnatural. Another common error is pointing the tip of the index finger directly at the mouth instead of keeping it horizontal, or rolling the finger backward toward the face instead of forward and away.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Hearing" in a Sentence
1

Are you deaf or hearing?

To sign this, you would sign 'DEAF', then use the 'one' handshape rolling horizontally in front of your lips to sign 'HEARING'. Remember to raise your eyebrows and lean forward slightly, as this is a yes/no question.

2

My parents are hearing.

Start by signing 'MY' and 'PARENTS'. Then, finish the sentence by placing your horizontal index finger in front of your mouth and making the small, forward-rolling circular motion to sign 'HEARING'.

3

I am a hearing person.

Point to yourself for 'I', then perform the 'HEARING' sign by tumbling your horizontal index finger in front of your lips. You do not need to add a separate sign for 'person', as 'HEARING' implies a hearing individual in this context.

Frequently Asked Questions
Does this sign mean the physical act of hearing sounds?

No, this specific sign refers to a 'hearing person' (someone who is not deaf or hard of hearing). To sign the physical act of hearing a sound, you would tap or point to your ear.

Which direction should the circle go?

The index finger should roll forward. It moves up and away from your lips, then down and back toward your body. Think of it like words rolling forward out of your mouth.

Can I use either hand for this sign?

Yes, you can use either your right or left hand. It is best practice to use your dominant hand to keep your signing comfortable, consistent, and natural.

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