How to Sign "Highway"

To sign 'highway', form both hands into an 'H' handshape by extending your index and middle fingers together while tucking your thumb over your curled ring and pinky fingers. Hold your hands in front of your chest with the palms facing each other and your extended fingers pointing straight forward. Move your hands forward and backward in alternating, parallel motions, as if showing two lanes of traffic moving smoothly in opposite directions.

Examples Using "Highway" in a Sentence

1

The highway is closed today.

To sign this, start with the sign for 'highway'. Then, use the sign for 'closed' by bringing two flat hands together in front of you, like shutting a pair of double doors. Finish with the sign for 'today'.

2

We drove on the highway for hours.

Begin by signing 'we', then use a steering wheel motion for 'drive'. Next, sign 'highway'. To show that it took hours, use the sign for 'hours' while incorporating a facial expression that conveys a long duration, like slightly puffing your cheeks.

3

Which highway do I take?

Sign 'highway', then point to yourself for 'I', and use the sign for 'drive' or 'go'. Finish with the sign for 'which' by alternating 'A' hands up and down. Remember to furrow your eyebrows at the end to indicate a 'wh-' question.

How to Sign "Highway"
To sign 'highway', form both hands into an 'H' handshape by extending your index and middle fingers together while tucking your thumb over your curled ring and pinky fingers. Hold your hands in front of your chest with the palms facing each other and your extended fingers pointing straight forward. Move your hands forward and backward in alternating, parallel motions, as if showing two lanes of traffic moving smoothly in opposite directions.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for 'highway' is a great example of an initialized sign in American Sign Language. It takes the foundational concept of a path or thoroughfare and incorporates the first letter of the English word. The 'H' handshapes stand for 'highway', while the alternating forward and backward movement visually represents two opposing lanes of fast-moving vehicles. This iconic motion perfectly captures the essence of a busy, multi-lane freeway where traffic flows continuously in both directions.
Signing Tips
When practicing the sign for 'highway', focus on keeping your 'H' handshapes parallel to each other. Maintain a consistent, even distance between your hands as they move back and forth. The movement should be smooth and continuous, representing the steady, uninterrupted flow of traffic on a major road. Make sure your palms stay facing each other and your fingers point straight ahead throughout the entire sign. Relax your shoulders and let the motion come naturally from your elbows rather than stiffening your arms.
Common Mistakes
A very common mistake beginners make is using flat, open hands instead of the 'H' handshapes. Using flat hands moving forward together is the sign for 'road' or 'street', so the 'H' handshape is crucial for specifying a 'highway'. Another frequent error is moving the hands up and down or side to side instead of strictly forward and backward. Ensure your hands glide smoothly past each other in straight, parallel lines to accurately depict opposing lanes of traffic.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Highway" in a Sentence
1

The highway is closed today.

To sign this, start with the sign for 'highway'. Then, use the sign for 'closed' by bringing two flat hands together in front of you, like shutting a pair of double doors. Finish with the sign for 'today'.

2

We drove on the highway for hours.

Begin by signing 'we', then use a steering wheel motion for 'drive'. Next, sign 'highway'. To show that it took hours, use the sign for 'hours' while incorporating a facial expression that conveys a long duration, like slightly puffing your cheeks.

3

Which highway do I take?

Sign 'highway', then point to yourself for 'I', and use the sign for 'drive' or 'go'. Finish with the sign for 'which' by alternating 'A' hands up and down. Remember to furrow your eyebrows at the end to indicate a 'wh-' question.

Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'road' and 'highway' in ASL?

The main difference lies in the handshape and movement. 'Road' or 'street' is signed using flat, open hands with palms facing each other, moving forward simultaneously. 'Highway' uses 'H' handshapes and features an alternating forward and backward motion to show lanes of traffic.

Can this sign also mean 'freeway'?

Yes, this sign is widely understood and commonly used for both 'highway' and 'freeway'. The concept of a large, multi-lane road is the same. However, you may occasionally see some signers initialize 'freeway' with 'F' handshapes using the exact same alternating movement.

Does the speed of the sign matter?

Yes, the speed of your signing can add meaning! A normal, smooth pace is standard. However, if you are describing a highway with cars zooming by at high speeds, you can move your hands faster to visually convey that fast-paced environment to your conversation partner.

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