How to Sign "Hip"
To sign "hip", you will fingerspell the word H-I-P. You can rest your non-dominant hand on your hip to provide clear visual context. With your dominant hand at chest level, start by forming an 'H' (extend your index and middle fingers horizontally). Next, transition smoothly into an 'I' by raising your pinky finger while curling the others. Finally, form a 'P' by pointing your index finger forward, dropping your middle finger down, and resting your thumb against your middle finger.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
Like many short, three-letter words in ASL, 'hip' is often simply fingerspelled. Resting a hand on the actual body part while spelling provides an iconic, visual reference to what is being discussed.
Signing Tips
When fingerspelling short words like H-I-P, focus on smooth transitions between the letters rather than bouncing your hand. If you prefer, you can also simply pat your hip twice with a flat hand, which is another common and widely accepted way to indicate this body part.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is bouncing your hand up and down for each letter. Keep your wrist and arm steady, letting your fingers do the work. Also, make sure your 'P' handshape is clearly formed with the middle finger pointing down, rather than just making a 'K' handshape.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Hip" in a Sentence
1My hip hurts.
Sign 'my', fingerspell H-I-P, and then use the sign for 'hurt' (twisting your index fingers toward each other) near your hip.
2She carried the baby on her hip.
Sign 'she', 'carry', 'baby', and then fingerspell H-I-P while indicating the side of your body.
3I bumped my hip on the table.
Sign 'table', fingerspell H-I-P, and use a classifier to show your body bumping into the edge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a sign for 'hip' that doesn't use fingerspelling?
Yes! While fingerspelling H-I-P is very common, you can also simply pat your hip twice with an open, flat hand to indicate the body part.
Do I have to touch my hip while spelling the word?
It is not strictly required, but resting your non-dominant hand on your hip gives the person you are signing with immediate visual context, making the fingerspelled word easier to understand.
How can I make my fingerspelling easier to read?
Keep your hand steady at chest level and avoid bouncing between letters. Focus on forming clear handshapes and smooth transitions rather than trying to spell as fast as possible.
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