Lessons
PocketSign
PocketSign

How to Sign "Homo"

To sign "homo" or "homosexual," start by forming an "H" handshape with your dominant hand. Do this by extending your index and middle fingers, keeping them pressed together, while tucking your thumb, ring, and pinky fingers inward. Bring your hand up to your face with your palm facing towards you and your extended fingers pointing sideways. Gently tap the side of your index finger against your chin.

Examples Using "Homo" in a Sentence

1

He is a homosexual.

To sign this, point to the person to establish 'HE', then form the 'H' handshape and tap it gently against your chin to indicate his identity.

2

They are fighting for homosexual rights.

Sign 'THEY', then use the 'H' handshape on your chin for 'homosexual', followed by the sign for 'RIGHTS' (moving the side of your dominant hand forward across your non-dominant palm).

3

Are you homosexual?

Point to the person for 'YOU', sign 'homosexual' by tapping the 'H' handshape on your chin, and be sure to raise your eyebrows and lean forward to show you are asking a yes/no question.

How to Sign "Homo"
To sign "homo" or "homosexual," start by forming an "H" handshape with your dominant hand. Do this by extending your index and middle fingers, keeping them pressed together, while tucking your thumb, ring, and pinky fingers inward. Bring your hand up to your face with your palm facing towards you and your extended fingers pointing sideways. Gently tap the side of your index finger against your chin.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is a classic example of an initialized sign in American Sign Language. It uses the 'H' handshape, representing the first letter of the English word 'homosexual.' The placement on the chin is shared with other signs related to sexual orientation and identity, such as the sign for 'gay,' which uses a 'G' handshape in the exact same location. This visual grouping helps categorize related concepts in ASL.
Signing Tips
When making the 'H' handshape, ensure your index and middle fingers are pressed closely together and pointing sideways. Keep your wrist relaxed as you bring your hand to your face. You don't need to tap forcefully; a light, gentle tap against the chin is perfect. Make sure your palm is facing towards you so the side of your index finger makes contact with your chin.
Common Mistakes
A very common mistake for beginners is confusing this sign with the sign for 'gay.' While both signs are tapped on the chin, 'gay' uses a 'G' handshape (index finger and thumb extended), whereas this sign requires an 'H' handshape (index and middle fingers extended). Another mistake is tapping the cheek or jawline instead of the front of the chin, which can confuse the meaning.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Homo" in a Sentence
1

He is a homosexual.

To sign this, point to the person to establish 'HE', then form the 'H' handshape and tap it gently against your chin to indicate his identity.

2

They are fighting for homosexual rights.

Sign 'THEY', then use the 'H' handshape on your chin for 'homosexual', followed by the sign for 'RIGHTS' (moving the side of your dominant hand forward across your non-dominant palm).

3

Are you homosexual?

Point to the person for 'YOU', sign 'homosexual' by tapping the 'H' handshape on your chin, and be sure to raise your eyebrows and lean forward to show you are asking a yes/no question.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is this sign still commonly used?

While this initialized 'H' sign for 'homosexual' is widely understood, many signers today prefer using the sign for 'gay' (a 'G' handshape on the chin) as a general, everyday umbrella term. The 'H' sign is sometimes viewed as more clinical or formal.

Does it matter which hand I use to sign this?

You should always use your dominant hand for one-handed signs like this. If you are right-handed, form the 'H' handshape with your right hand and tap your chin. Switching hands randomly can be distracting to the person you are signing with.

Can I use this sign to mean 'lesbian'?

No, there is a specific sign for 'lesbian.' It is made by forming an 'L' handshape with your dominant hand and tapping your index finger against your chin. The 'H' sign is specifically for 'homosexual' or 'homo.'

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