Lessons
PocketSign
PocketSign

How to Sign "Lollipop"

To sign 'lollipop', form your dominant hand into an 'X' handshape by curling your index finger into a hook while keeping your other fingers closed. Bring your hand up to your mouth. Move your hand slightly in and out or up and down in front of your lips, as if you are holding a lollipop stick and licking the candy. The movement should be small and kept close to your face.

Examples Using "Lollipop" in a Sentence

1

I bought a cherry lollipop.

To sign this, start by pointing to yourself for 'I', then sign 'buy' and 'cherry'. Finish with the sign for 'lollipop', making sure to clearly show the 'X' handshape near your mouth.

2

Do you want a lollipop?

Point to the person for 'you', sign 'want', and then 'lollipop'. Since this is a yes/no question, remember to raise your eyebrows and lean forward slightly while signing.

3

My favorite candy is a lollipop.

Sign 'my', 'favorite', and 'candy' (twisting your index finger on your cheek). Then, sign 'lollipop' to specify the exact type of sweet treat you love the most.

How to Sign "Lollipop"
To sign 'lollipop', form your dominant hand into an 'X' handshape by curling your index finger into a hook while keeping your other fingers closed. Bring your hand up to your mouth. Move your hand slightly in and out or up and down in front of your lips, as if you are holding a lollipop stick and licking the candy. The movement should be small and kept close to your face.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for 'lollipop' is highly iconic and visually intuitive. The hooked 'X' handshape perfectly mimics the way your thumb and index finger pinch the thin stick of a lollipop. Meanwhile, the repetitive motion near your mouth visually represents the real-world action of licking or eating the hard candy.
Signing Tips
When signing 'lollipop', focus on the 'X' handshape. This specific finger position is important because it represents pinching the thin stick of the candy. Keep your movement small, controlled, and close to your mouth to make the iconic nature of the sign obvious. You can even add a pleasant facial expression to show that you are enjoying a sweet treat!
Common Mistakes
A common mistake beginners make is using a full 'S' fist instead of the hooked 'X' handshape. A closed fist makes it look like you are holding a large microphone or eating an ice cream cone rather than a small stick. Additionally, avoid making the movement too large or pulling your hand too far away from your face; keep it contained right in front of your lips.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Lollipop" in a Sentence
1

I bought a cherry lollipop.

To sign this, start by pointing to yourself for 'I', then sign 'buy' and 'cherry'. Finish with the sign for 'lollipop', making sure to clearly show the 'X' handshape near your mouth.

2

Do you want a lollipop?

Point to the person for 'you', sign 'want', and then 'lollipop'. Since this is a yes/no question, remember to raise your eyebrows and lean forward slightly while signing.

3

My favorite candy is a lollipop.

Sign 'my', 'favorite', and 'candy' (twisting your index finger on your cheek). Then, sign 'lollipop' to specify the exact type of sweet treat you love the most.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is the sign for 'lollipop' the same as the sign for 'candy'?

No, they are different! While a lollipop is a type of candy, the general sign for 'candy' is made by twisting your index finger on your cheek. 'Lollipop' specifically mimics the action of holding and eating a lollipop on a stick.

Should my hand actually touch my mouth when signing 'lollipop'?

It is best to keep your hand just slightly in front of your lips rather than making direct contact. Hovering just outside your mouth keeps the sign clear, visible, and comfortable to perform in everyday conversation.

Does it matter which hand I use to sign this?

You should always use your dominant hand to sign 'lollipop'. If you are right-handed, use your right hand to form the 'X' shape; if you are left-handed, use your left hand. Keeping your dominant hand consistent helps with overall fluency.

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