Lessons
PocketSign
PocketSign

How to Sign "Lettuce"

To sign 'lettuce,' bring your dominant hand up to the side of your head near your temple. Form a slightly curved, open handshape with your palm facing your head. Gently tap the heel of your hand against the side of your head twice.

Examples Using "Lettuce" in a Sentence

1

I want lettuce in my salad.

Sign 'lettuce' by tapping the side of your head, followed by the sign for 'salad,' which looks like you are tossing a bowl of greens with both hands.

2

Do you like lettuce?

Point to the person, sign 'like,' and then sign 'lettuce' while raising your eyebrows and leaning slightly forward to indicate a yes/no question.

3

Please buy some lettuce at the store.

Sign 'store,' 'buy,' and then 'lettuce,' ensuring the double tap on the side of your head is clear and distinct.

How to Sign "Lettuce"
To sign 'lettuce,' bring your dominant hand up to the side of your head near your temple. Form a slightly curved, open handshape with your palm facing your head. Gently tap the heel of your hand against the side of your head twice.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for 'lettuce' is highly iconic and is thought to visually represent the large, leafy head of a lettuce plant. The curved, open handshape mimics the broad, rounded shape of a crisp lettuce leaf. By placing this 'leaf' near your own head, the sign playfully connects the English concept of a 'head of lettuce' to your actual head. This kind of visual pun or literal placement is a fun and memorable feature found in several American Sign Language vocabulary words.
Signing Tips
When signing 'lettuce,' focus on keeping your wrist loose and relaxed as you tap the side of your head. The movement should primarily come from a slight flick of the wrist rather than moving your entire arm back and forth. This makes the double tap look quick, fluid, and natural. Make sure your fingers are slightly curved and held together loosely, rather than being rigidly straight and tense. A relaxed handshape is key to making your signing look more conversational and less robotic.
Common Mistakes
A very common mistake beginners make is using a completely flat, stiff hand instead of a slightly curved, relaxed handshape. Another frequent error is tapping the center of the forehead instead of the side of the head near the temple. Additionally, be careful not to confuse this sign with 'cabbage.' While both signs are related to leafy greens and are signed near the head, 'cabbage' is typically signed by tapping the side of the head with 'A' handshapes rather than an open hand.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Lettuce" in a Sentence
1

I want lettuce in my salad.

Sign 'lettuce' by tapping the side of your head, followed by the sign for 'salad,' which looks like you are tossing a bowl of greens with both hands.

2

Do you like lettuce?

Point to the person, sign 'like,' and then sign 'lettuce' while raising your eyebrows and leaning slightly forward to indicate a yes/no question.

3

Please buy some lettuce at the store.

Sign 'store,' 'buy,' and then 'lettuce,' ensuring the double tap on the side of your head is clear and distinct.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is the sign for lettuce the same as cabbage?

No, they are different! While both are signed near the head, 'lettuce' uses an open, slightly curved hand tapping the side of the head. 'Cabbage' is typically signed by tapping the side of the head with an 'A' handshape.

Does it matter which side of my head I tap?

You should always use your dominant hand and tap the corresponding side of your head. If you are right-handed, use your right hand to tap the right side of your head near the temple.

How hard should I tap my head?

The tap should be very gentle. You only need to lightly touch the heel of your hand to the side of your head twice. The movement should be relaxed and comfortable, never forceful.

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