Lessons
PocketSign
PocketSign

How to Sign "Masterbation"

To sign this variation, begin with both hands in "A" handshapes (fists with your thumbs resting against the side, pointing up). Bring your dominant "A" hand down to rest on top of your non-dominant "A" hand. Next, transition into the second part of the sign by changing your non-dominant hand into a flat shape with the palm facing down. Finally, form your dominant hand into an open "8" handshape (fingers spread with the middle finger bent downward) and tap the tip of your middle finger against the back of your non-dominant hand.

Examples Using "Masterbation" in a Sentence

1

The health teacher discussed masturbation.

Sign 'HEALTH', 'TEACHER', and 'DISCUSS', then use this compound sign to complete the sentence.

2

It is normal to have questions about masturbation.

Sign 'NORMAL', 'HAVE', and 'QUESTION', and finish with this two-part sign to convey the topic clearly.

3

They read an article about masturbation.

Start with 'THEY', 'READ', and 'ARTICLE', and use this compound sign at the end of the phrase.

How to Sign "Masterbation"
To sign this variation, begin with both hands in "A" handshapes (fists with your thumbs resting against the side, pointing up). Bring your dominant "A" hand down to rest on top of your non-dominant "A" hand. Next, transition into the second part of the sign by changing your non-dominant hand into a flat shape with the palm facing down. Finally, form your dominant hand into an open "8" handshape (fingers spread with the middle finger bent downward) and tap the tip of your middle finger against the back of your non-dominant hand.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This specific variation is a compound sign that visually blends two distinct concepts. The first half resembles the sign for 'MASTER' (a dominant fist resting over a base fist), and the second half is the sign for 'TOUCH' (the middle finger tapping the back of the hand), acting as a conceptual or literal translation for the term.
Signing Tips
Focus on making a clear, smooth transition between the two parts of the sign. Ensure your "A" handshapes are distinct before flattening your base hand and changing your dominant hand to the open "8" handshape for the tap.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is rushing the transition, which can cause the "A" handshapes to look sloppy before moving into the tapping motion. Make sure to clearly establish the first position before flattening the base hand.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Masterbation" in a Sentence
1

The health teacher discussed masturbation.

Sign 'HEALTH', 'TEACHER', and 'DISCUSS', then use this compound sign to complete the sentence.

2

It is normal to have questions about masturbation.

Sign 'NORMAL', 'HAVE', and 'QUESTION', and finish with this two-part sign to convey the topic clearly.

3

They read an article about masturbation.

Start with 'THEY', 'READ', and 'ARTICLE', and use this compound sign at the end of the phrase.

Frequently Asked Questions
Why does this sign look like two different words?

This specific variation is a compound sign. It combines the visual elements of "MASTER" (one fist resting on top of another) and "TOUCH" (the middle finger tapping the hand) to conceptually represent the word.

Which finger should tap the back of my hand?

You should use the middle finger of your dominant hand. Bend it downward from an open hand (known as the open "8" handshape) to tap the back of your non-dominant hand.

Should my base hand stay in a fist the whole time?

No. Your non-dominant (base) hand starts as an "A" handshape (a fist) for the first part of the sign, but it must flatten out with the palm facing down for the second part.

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