How to Sign "Labor"

To sign 'labor', form both hands into 'S' handshapes (fists). Hold your non-dominant hand in front of your chest with the back of the wrist facing up. Bring your dominant hand down so that the inside of your dominant wrist taps the back of your non-dominant wrist twice.

Examples Using "Labor" in a Sentence

1

The manual labor was exhausting.

Sign 'labor' using the double tap on the wrist, followed by the sign for 'exhausting' to show how tiring the work was.

2

I support the labor union.

Use the sign for 'labor' (which is the same as 'work') before signing 'union' to convey the concept of a workers' organization.

3

He was paid well for his labor.

Sign 'labor' to represent the effort or work he provided, followed by the signs for 'pay' and 'good'.

How to Sign "Labor"
To sign 'labor', form both hands into 'S' handshapes (fists). Hold your non-dominant hand in front of your chest with the back of the wrist facing up. Bring your dominant hand down so that the inside of your dominant wrist taps the back of your non-dominant wrist twice.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The 'S' handshapes and the tapping motion visually represent hands engaged in physical effort, reminiscent of hammering or constructing, which symbolizes manual labor and hard work.
Signing Tips
Keep your non-dominant hand steady as a base. The movement should be a clear, deliberate double tap with your dominant wrist, making a solid but gentle connection.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is using 'A' handshapes (with the thumbs resting on the side) instead of 'S' handshapes (with the thumbs wrapped across the front of the fingers). Beginners also sometimes tap their knuckles together instead of crossing their wrists.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Labor" in a Sentence
1

The manual labor was exhausting.

Sign 'labor' using the double tap on the wrist, followed by the sign for 'exhausting' to show how tiring the work was.

2

I support the labor union.

Use the sign for 'labor' (which is the same as 'work') before signing 'union' to convey the concept of a workers' organization.

3

He was paid well for his labor.

Sign 'labor' to represent the effort or work he provided, followed by the signs for 'pay' and 'good'.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is the sign for 'labor' the same as 'work'?

Yes, the sign shown here is the exact same as the sign for 'work.' It is used for employment, tasks, chores, or physical effort.

Can I use this sign for a woman 'in labor' (childbirth)?

No, the concept of a woman being in labor uses a completely different sign related to childbirth or contractions. This sign strictly means work or physical labor.

Does it matter which hand is on top?

Yes, your dominant hand should be the active hand that moves and taps on top of your non-dominant, stationary hand.

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