How to Sign "Medium"

To sign "medium," hold both hands in front of you using loose "L" handshapes, with your index fingers pointing forward and thumbs pointing up. Position your hands so your palms are facing each other, keeping them a moderate distance apart. This gesture visually represents holding an object of average or medium size.

Examples Using "Medium" in a Sentence

1

I would like a medium coffee.

Sign 'coffee' first, and then use the 'medium' sign to visually indicate the size of the cup you are ordering.

2

The dog is medium-sized.

After signing 'dog,' use the 'medium' sign to describe the animal's physical dimensions to your conversation partner.

3

Do you wear a size medium?

Point to the person, sign the clothing item (like 'shirt'), and then hold your hands at a moderate distance to ask if that is their size.

How to Sign "Medium"
To sign "medium," hold both hands in front of you using loose "L" handshapes, with your index fingers pointing forward and thumbs pointing up. Position your hands so your palms are facing each other, keeping them a moderate distance apart. This gesture visually represents holding an object of average or medium size.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is highly iconic and visually motivated. By holding your hands at a set distance apart, you are physically outlining the dimensions of a medium-sized object in the space right in front of you.
Signing Tips
When signing sizes in ASL, facial expressions are very important. Keep your face relaxed and neutral for 'medium.' (By contrast, 'large' often uses puffed cheeks, and 'small' uses pursed lips!).
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is placing your hands too close together or too far apart. Since this sign is visual, the distance between your hands directly translates to the size you mean, so be sure to keep them at a moderate, average width.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Medium" in a Sentence
1

I would like a medium coffee.

Sign 'coffee' first, and then use the 'medium' sign to visually indicate the size of the cup you are ordering.

2

The dog is medium-sized.

After signing 'dog,' use the 'medium' sign to describe the animal's physical dimensions to your conversation partner.

3

Do you wear a size medium?

Point to the person, sign the clothing item (like 'shirt'), and then hold your hands at a moderate distance to ask if that is their size.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use this sign to talk about a psychic 'medium'?

No, this sign specifically refers to physical size, dimensions, or portions. If you are talking about a psychic medium, you would typically fingerspell the word or use signs related to seeing or the spirit world.

How do I change this sign to mean 'small' or 'large'?

You use the exact same handshapes and orientation, but simply adjust the distance between your hands! Bring them close together to sign 'small,' and pull them wide apart to sign 'large.'

Does it matter which way my palms are facing?

Yes, your palms should face directly toward each other. Imagine you are holding the left and right sides of a medium-sized box; this helps clearly establish the visual boundaries of the size.

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