How to Sign "Horses"

To sign 'horses,' form both hands into a 'U' handshape with your thumbs extended. Place your thumbs against the sides of your head near your temples, with your index and middle fingers pointing straight up. Bend your index and middle fingers forward twice, mimicking the twitching ears of a horse.

Examples Using "Horses" in a Sentence

1

I love watching the horses run.

Sign 'horses' using both hands at your temples, then use a galloping motion with your hands to describe them running.

2

There are five horses in the barn.

Sign 'five,' then sign 'horses' with both hands, followed by the sign for 'barn' or 'building.'

3

Are you afraid of horses?

Point to the person, sign 'afraid' with a fearful facial expression, and then sign 'horses.'

How to Sign "Horses"
To sign 'horses,' form both hands into a 'U' handshape with your thumbs extended. Place your thumbs against the sides of your head near your temples, with your index and middle fingers pointing straight up. Bend your index and middle fingers forward twice, mimicking the twitching ears of a horse.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is highly iconic and visually motivated. The extended index and middle fingers represent the tall ears of a horse. Bending the fingers forward twice perfectly mimics the way a horse twitches or flicks its ears to listen to its surroundings.
Signing Tips
Make sure to keep your index and middle fingers glued together as you bend them. Keep your thumbs firmly planted on your temples to anchor the sign. Using both hands is a great, visual way to show the plural form of the word, whereas using just one hand usually means a single horse.
Common Mistakes
Beginners often extend all their fingers instead of just the index and middle fingers. If you use an open hand and bend all your fingers forward, you are actually signing 'donkey'! Another common mistake is moving your whole hand away from your head; remember to keep your thumbs touching your temples the entire time.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Horses" in a Sentence
1

I love watching the horses run.

Sign 'horses' using both hands at your temples, then use a galloping motion with your hands to describe them running.

2

There are five horses in the barn.

Sign 'five,' then sign 'horses' with both hands, followed by the sign for 'barn' or 'building.'

3

Are you afraid of horses?

Point to the person, sign 'afraid' with a fearful facial expression, and then sign 'horses.'

Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'horse' and 'horses' in ASL?

'Horse' is typically signed using only your dominant hand. To sign 'horses,' you can use both hands simultaneously, as shown in the video, to visually indicate that there is more than one.

Can I sign 'horses' with just one hand?

Yes! You can sign 'horse' with one hand and then add a number or a sign like 'many' to show plurality. However, using both hands is a quick and natural way to show multiple horses.

How do I avoid confusing 'horses' with 'donkey'?

For 'horses,' make sure only your index and middle fingers are extended and kept together. The sign for 'donkey' is similar but uses an open hand with all fingers extended and bending forward.

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