Lessons
PocketSign
PocketSign

How to Sign "Masturbate"

This video demonstrates two common variations of the sign, typically used to distinguish male and female anatomy. For the first variation (male), hold your non-dominant hand in front of you with the index finger pointing upward. Wrap your dominant hand around the index finger in a loose fist and slide it up and down a few times. For the second variation (female), hold your non-dominant hand flat with the palm facing down. Form an 'open 8' handshape with your dominant hand—an open hand with the middle finger bent forward—and stroke the tip of the middle finger back and forth across the back of your non-dominant hand.

Examples Using "Masturbate" in a Sentence

1

Masturbation is completely normal.

Sign MASTURBATE, followed by NORMAL. You can choose the variation that matches the gender context of the conversation.

2

The health class discussed masturbation.

Sign HEALTH, CLASS, DISCUSS, and then MASTURBATE. In a general educational context, either sign can be used, or both can be shown to be inclusive.

3

He learned about masturbation online.

Sign HE, LEARN, INTERNET, and then the first variation of MASTURBATE, as the subject of the sentence is male.

How to Sign "Masturbate"
This video demonstrates two common variations of the sign, typically used to distinguish male and female anatomy. For the first variation (male), hold your non-dominant hand in front of you with the index finger pointing upward. Wrap your dominant hand around the index finger in a loose fist and slide it up and down a few times. For the second variation (female), hold your non-dominant hand flat with the palm facing down. Form an 'open 8' handshape with your dominant hand—an open hand with the middle finger bent forward—and stroke the tip of the middle finger back and forth across the back of your non-dominant hand.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
Both variations of this sign are highly iconic, meaning they visually represent the physical actions and anatomy associated with male and female masturbation.
Signing Tips
When signing the first variation, keep the movement confined to your dominant hand sliding up and down while your non-dominant index finger remains stationary. For the second variation, ensure your non-dominant hand stays flat and still. The 'open 8' handshape used here (with the middle finger bent forward) is a common ASL handshape also seen in signs like FEEL and SENSITIVE.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is using the wrong handshape for the second variation; make sure only the middle finger is bent forward to stroke the back of the hand, rather than rubbing with the entire palm. Another frequent error is moving both hands during the first variation—your non-dominant index finger should act as a firm, stationary base.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Masturbate" in a Sentence
1

Masturbation is completely normal.

Sign MASTURBATE, followed by NORMAL. You can choose the variation that matches the gender context of the conversation.

2

The health class discussed masturbation.

Sign HEALTH, CLASS, DISCUSS, and then MASTURBATE. In a general educational context, either sign can be used, or both can be shown to be inclusive.

3

He learned about masturbation online.

Sign HE, LEARN, INTERNET, and then the first variation of MASTURBATE, as the subject of the sentence is male.

Frequently Asked Questions
Are there different signs for male and female masturbation?

Yes, ASL often uses distinct signs based on anatomy. The video demonstrates the male variation first (sliding a fist on the index finger) followed by the female variation (stroking the back of the hand with the middle finger).

Which variation should I use in a general context?

If you are talking about the concept generally without specifying gender, you can use either sign. In educational or medical settings, signers will sometimes use both in sequence to be fully inclusive.

Is this considered a vulgar sign?

While the topic itself is sensitive, these signs are the standard, clinical terms used in ASL. As with any language, your context, setting, and facial expressions dictate whether the tone is educational, casual, or inappropriate.

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