Lessons
PocketSign
PocketSign

How to Sign "Lion"

To sign 'lion', splay the dominant hand with the fingers slightly curled into a claw shape. Bring the hand up and, with the palm facing down, move the hand over the head. With the fingers pointing forward, bring the hand back and down the back of your head, like a lion's mane.

Examples Using "Lion" in a Sentence

1

We saw a lion at the zoo.

To sign this, first set the context by signing 'zoo'. Then, sign 'lion' by forming a claw handshape and sweeping it backward over your head to show the mane. Finish the sentence by pointing to yourself and signing 'see'.

2

The lion is sleeping.

First, establish the subject by signing 'lion' using the claw handshape moving from the front to the back of your head. Then, bring both hands to the side of your face, resting your cheek on your palms, and tilt your head to sign 'sleep'.

3

Lions are very brave.

Start with the sign for 'lion', dragging your clawed hand smoothly over your head to represent the mane. Follow this by signing 'brave', which is done by bringing your hands outward from your shoulders and forming strong, confident fists.

How to Sign "Lion"
To sign 'lion', splay the dominant hand with the fingers slightly curled into a claw shape. Bring the hand up and, with the palm facing down, move the hand over the head. With the fingers pointing forward, bring the hand back and down the back of your head, like a lion's mane.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for 'lion' is highly iconic, meaning it visually represents the physical characteristics of the animal it stands for. The clawed handshape moving backward over the head perfectly mimics the thick, flowing mane of a male lion. The splayed, curled fingers of the claw shape also subtly hint at the fierce nature and sharp claws of the big cat, making it very easy to remember.
Signing Tips
To make the sign for 'lion' look natural, keep your fingers stiff and slightly curled like a true animal claw. Make sure the movement is a smooth, continuous sweep as you glide your hand over your head. Start the motion just above your forehead and carry it all the way down to the back of your neck. You can also add a subtle, fierce facial expression to give the sign more life and context!
Common Mistakes
A common mistake beginners make is physically touching their hair or head while moving their hand backward. Your hand should hover just above your head, not comb through your hair. Additionally, make sure your palm faces down and your fingers point backward during the sweep, rather than pointing your fingers down at your scalp. Keep the claw shape rigid throughout the entire motion.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Lion" in a Sentence
1

We saw a lion at the zoo.

To sign this, first set the context by signing 'zoo'. Then, sign 'lion' by forming a claw handshape and sweeping it backward over your head to show the mane. Finish the sentence by pointing to yourself and signing 'see'.

2

The lion is sleeping.

First, establish the subject by signing 'lion' using the claw handshape moving from the front to the back of your head. Then, bring both hands to the side of your face, resting your cheek on your palms, and tilt your head to sign 'sleep'.

3

Lions are very brave.

Start with the sign for 'lion', dragging your clawed hand smoothly over your head to represent the mane. Follow this by signing 'brave', which is done by bringing your hands outward from your shoulders and forming strong, confident fists.

Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to touch my head when signing 'lion'?

No, you do not need to physically touch your head. Your dominant hand should hover just slightly above your hair as you sweep it backward. This hovering motion clearly represents the volume of the lion's mane without messing up your hair.

Can I use two hands to sign 'lion'?

The standard sign for 'lion' only uses your dominant hand. Using two hands is not standard and might confuse the meaning, making it look like you are describing a different animal or a specific action rather than just the noun 'lion'.

Does the speed of the sign matter?

A smooth, moderate pace is best. If you sign it too quickly, it might look like you are swatting a bug away from your head. A deliberate, sweeping motion clearly and beautifully shows the majestic mane of the lion.

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