Lessons
PocketSign
PocketSign

How to Sign "Lab"

To sign 'lab', you will fingerspell the word by forming the letters L, A, and B. Start with your dominant hand in an 'L' handshape, then close your fingers into an 'A' handshape, and finally open your hand flat with your fingers together for the 'B' handshape. Keep your hand steady in front of your shoulder as you smoothly transition between the letters.

Examples Using "Lab" in a Sentence

1

I have a science lab today.

To express this, you would sign 'science' by making 'A' handshapes and rotating them alternately downward. Then, smoothly fingerspell L-A-B for 'lab', and finish by signing 'today' with both 'Y' hands bouncing downward.

2

The lab results are ready.

Start by fingerspelling L-A-B clearly and steadily. Then, sign 'results' by bringing an 'R' handshape down to meet your other hand, and finally sign 'ready' by crossing your 'R' hands outward.

3

She works in a research lab.

Begin by pointing to the person to establish the subject, then sign 'work' by tapping your 'S' wrists together. Follow this with the sign for 'research' and conclude by fingerspelling L-A-B.

How to Sign "Lab"
To sign 'lab', you will fingerspell the word by forming the letters L, A, and B. Start with your dominant hand in an 'L' handshape, then close your fingers into an 'A' handshape, and finally open your hand flat with your fingers together for the 'B' handshape. Keep your hand steady in front of your shoulder as you smoothly transition between the letters.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
In American Sign Language, very short English words—especially those with three or four letters—are frequently fingerspelled rather than given a dedicated sign. Because 'lab' is a quick, three-letter abbreviation for 'laboratory', fingerspelling L-A-B is the most efficient and standard way to express the concept. This practice of fingerspelling short words is known as a lexicalized fingerspelled word, where the spelling becomes so fluid that it functions almost like a single, distinct sign of its own.
Signing Tips
When fingerspelling short words like 'lab', focus on creating a smooth, continuous flow between the letters rather than pausing abruptly. Keep your hand steady in one place, positioned comfortably near your shoulder and facing outward. Avoid the urge to bounce or push your hand forward with each new letter, as this can make your spelling harder to read. Practicing the transition from 'L' to 'A' to 'B' slowly will help you build muscle memory for a natural, effortless spelling speed.
Common Mistakes
A very common mistake beginners make when fingerspelling is bouncing the hand up and down or pushing it forward for each individual letter. This unnecessary movement can be distracting and makes your spelling difficult to read. Another frequent error occurs with the 'B' handshape; make sure your fingers are kept tightly together rather than spread apart. Finally, ensure your palm is facing outward toward the viewer rather than turned inward toward yourself, which obscures the letters.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Lab" in a Sentence
1

I have a science lab today.

To express this, you would sign 'science' by making 'A' handshapes and rotating them alternately downward. Then, smoothly fingerspell L-A-B for 'lab', and finish by signing 'today' with both 'Y' hands bouncing downward.

2

The lab results are ready.

Start by fingerspelling L-A-B clearly and steadily. Then, sign 'results' by bringing an 'R' handshape down to meet your other hand, and finally sign 'ready' by crossing your 'R' hands outward.

3

She works in a research lab.

Begin by pointing to the person to establish the subject, then sign 'work' by tapping your 'S' wrists together. Follow this with the sign for 'research' and conclude by fingerspelling L-A-B.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a specific sign for 'laboratory'?

While there are signs used in specialized scientific contexts, the abbreviation 'lab' is almost universally fingerspelled in everyday conversation. Because it consists of only three letters, fingerspelling L-A-B is incredibly quick, efficient, and widely understood by fluent ASL signers.

Should I mouth the word 'lab' while signing it?

Yes, it is common and helpful to lightly mouth the word 'lab' as you fingerspell it. Mouthing the English word provides additional context and clarity for the person reading your sign, especially when you are spelling quickly or introducing a new topic.

Which hand should I use to fingerspell?

You should always use your dominant hand for fingerspelling. Keep your hand comfortably positioned near your shoulder, with your palm facing outward toward the person you are communicating with. Avoid switching hands, as consistency helps the viewer read your spelling more easily.

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