Lessons
PocketSign
PocketSign

How to Sign "Hispanic"

To sign 'Hispanic,' start by forming both hands into 'X' handshapes, which means making a fist and curling your index fingers into a hook. Hold your non-dominant hand steadily in front of your lower chest. Place your dominant hand higher up, near your dominant shoulder. In one smooth motion, bring your dominant hand down diagonally to hook its index finger onto your non-dominant index finger. The sign ends with the two 'X' handshapes linked together.

Examples Using "Hispanic" in a Sentence

1

She is proud of her Hispanic heritage.

To sign this, point to the person for 'she,' sign 'proud' by bringing your thumb up your chest, and then sign 'Hispanic.' You can finish with the sign for 'culture' to represent heritage.

2

I am learning about Hispanic history.

Start by pointing to yourself for 'I,' then use the sign for 'learn' by pulling knowledge from your palm to your forehead. Follow this with 'Hispanic' and the 'H' handshape moving down for 'history.'

3

Are you Hispanic?

Point to the person you are asking, then perform the sign for 'Hispanic.' Since this is a yes/no question, remember to keep your eyebrows raised and lean forward slightly while holding the final sign.

How to Sign "Hispanic"
To sign 'Hispanic,' start by forming both hands into 'X' handshapes, which means making a fist and curling your index fingers into a hook. Hold your non-dominant hand steadily in front of your lower chest. Place your dominant hand higher up, near your dominant shoulder. In one smooth motion, bring your dominant hand down diagonally to hook its index finger onto your non-dominant index finger. The sign ends with the two 'X' handshapes linked together.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for 'Hispanic' shares its roots with the ASL sign for 'Spain' or 'Spanish.' The movement of the 'X' handshapes starting at the shoulders and coming together at the chest is widely believed to visually reference the traditional mantilla—a lace veil or shawl historically worn draped over the shoulders by women in Spain. Over time, this iconic visual representation evolved in ASL to encompass the broader concept of Hispanic identity and culture.
Signing Tips
When practicing the sign for 'Hispanic,' focus on making your 'X' handshapes very clear and distinct. Keep your non-dominant hand stationary as an anchor, and let your dominant hand do the moving. The movement should be a fluid, diagonal drop from your shoulder down to your other hand. Ensure the sign ends with a firm, confident connection when the two index fingers hook together.
Common Mistakes
A very common mistake for beginners is using straight index fingers (the '1' handshape) instead of the properly hooked 'X' handshape. Another frequent error is starting the dominant hand too low on the chest. Make sure your dominant hand starts high up near your collarbone or shoulder before sweeping down to meet your non-dominant hand, giving the sign its full, recognizable movement.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Hispanic" in a Sentence
1

She is proud of her Hispanic heritage.

To sign this, point to the person for 'she,' sign 'proud' by bringing your thumb up your chest, and then sign 'Hispanic.' You can finish with the sign for 'culture' to represent heritage.

2

I am learning about Hispanic history.

Start by pointing to yourself for 'I,' then use the sign for 'learn' by pulling knowledge from your palm to your forehead. Follow this with 'Hispanic' and the 'H' handshape moving down for 'history.'

3

Are you Hispanic?

Point to the person you are asking, then perform the sign for 'Hispanic.' Since this is a yes/no question, remember to keep your eyebrows raised and lean forward slightly while holding the final sign.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is the sign for 'Hispanic' the same as 'Spanish'?

Yes, in ASL, the signs for 'Hispanic,' 'Spanish,' and 'Spain' are often signed exactly the same way using the hooked 'X' handshapes. You will rely on the context of your sentence to make it clear whether you are talking about the language, the country, or a person's heritage.

Do I have to use both hands for this sign?

Yes, 'Hispanic' is a two-handed sign. Your non-dominant hand is essential because it acts as a stationary base or anchor. The sign isn't complete until your dominant hand travels down from your shoulder to successfully hook onto that non-dominant hand.

How do I make the correct handshape?

Both hands use the 'X' handshape. To make this, start by making a closed fist. Then, extend your index finger and curl it inward so it looks like a hook. Keep your thumb tucked in and your other fingers closed tightly against your palm.

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