How to Sign "Hugs"
To sign 'hugs', cross both of your arms over your chest as if you are giving yourself a warm embrace. Your hands should rest on your opposite upper arms or shoulders. Give a gentle squeeze to complete the sign.
Examples Using "Hugs" in a Sentence
1
I love giving hugs.
Point to yourself for 'I', sign 'love', and then cross your arms over your chest for 'hugs'.
2
Do you want a hug?
Point to the person, sign 'want', and then sign 'hug' while raising your eyebrows to indicate a yes/no question.
3
She gave me a big hug.
Point to your subject, sign 'give', and then sign 'hug' with an exaggerated squeeze and a warm facial expression to show it was a big hug.
How to Sign "Hugs"
To sign 'hugs', cross both of your arms over your chest as if you are giving yourself a warm embrace. Your hands should rest on your opposite upper arms or shoulders. Give a gentle squeeze to complete the sign.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is highly iconic, meaning it looks exactly like what it represents. It directly mimics the physical, real-world action of wrapping your arms around someone to give them a warm embrace.
Signing Tips
When signing 'hugs', your facial expression is just as important as your hands. Since a hug is a sign of affection, make sure your face looks warm and friendly. You can also adjust the intensity of the squeeze to show whether it is a quick hug or a big, tight bear hug.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is crossing the arms too low down near the stomach instead of up high across the chest. Another mistake is simply resting the arms without the gentle squeeze, which can look like you are just standing with folded arms rather than actively giving a hug.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Hugs" in a Sentence
1I love giving hugs.
Point to yourself for 'I', sign 'love', and then cross your arms over your chest for 'hugs'.
2Do you want a hug?
Point to the person, sign 'want', and then sign 'hug' while raising your eyebrows to indicate a yes/no question.
3She gave me a big hug.
Point to your subject, sign 'give', and then sign 'hug' with an exaggerated squeeze and a warm facial expression to show it was a big hug.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the sign for 'hug' the same as the sign for 'love'?
They are very similar, but have slight differences. 'Love' is typically signed with closed fists crossed directly over the heart. 'Hug' involves reaching a bit further to grasp the opposite upper arms and often includes a slight squeezing motion.
Does it matter which arm is crossed on top?
No, it does not matter which arm is on top. Most signers naturally place their dominant arm on top or closest to their body, but either way is perfectly acceptable and easily understood.
Can this sign be used for both the noun and the verb?
Yes! You can use this exact same sign whether you are talking about 'a hug' (the noun) or the action of 'hugging' someone (the verb). The context of your sentence will make the meaning clear.
ASL is a beautiful, expressive language. Practice regularly and have fun!