How to Sign "Mommy"
To sign 'mommy', splay the fingers of the hand slightly. Bring the hand up to the mouth, with the pinkie facing outwards. Tap the tip of the thumb against the lower lip twice.
Examples Using "Mommy" in a Sentence
1
I love my mommy.
Point to yourself for 'I', cross your arms over your chest for 'love', and then sign 'mommy' by tapping your thumb against your lower lip twice with your fingers splayed.
2
Where is your mommy?
Point to the person for 'your', sign 'mommy' using the double tap on the lower lip, and then sign 'where' while furrowing your eyebrows to indicate a question.
3
My mommy is home.
Sign 'my' by placing a flat hand on your chest, sign 'mommy' with the thumb tapping the lower lip twice, and then sign 'home' by bringing a pinched hand from your mouth to your cheek.
How to Sign "Mommy"
To sign 'mommy', splay the fingers of the hand slightly. Bring the hand up to the mouth, with the pinkie facing outwards. Tap the tip of the thumb against the lower lip twice.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for 'mommy' is rooted in the spatial organization of gender in American Sign Language. Signs related to females, such as mother, grandmother, aunt, and girl, are traditionally formed on the lower half of the face, near the chin and mouth. The open handshape with splayed fingers is a foundational ASL element used for parents, and the double tap often indicates a more affectionate, repetitive, or diminutive form of a root word.
Signing Tips
To make the sign for 'mommy' look natural, keep your fingers relaxed and slightly splayed rather than rigidly straight. Ensure the movement comes smoothly from your arm, gently bringing the thumb to tap your lower lip. The double tap is important as it often distinguishes the more affectionate 'mommy' from 'mother'. Keep your palm facing sideways so your pinkie points outward, just as the description notes.
Common Mistakes
A frequent mistake beginners make is using the wrong handshape, such as a closed fist or pointing with the index finger, instead of using the open handshape with splayed fingers. Another common error is tapping the forehead instead of the lower lip; remember that in ASL, female-related signs are located on the lower half of the face. Finally, be careful not to tap too hard or obscure your mouth, as facial expressions are crucial.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Mommy" in a Sentence
1I love my mommy.
Point to yourself for 'I', cross your arms over your chest for 'love', and then sign 'mommy' by tapping your thumb against your lower lip twice with your fingers splayed.
2Where is your mommy?
Point to the person for 'your', sign 'mommy' using the double tap on the lower lip, and then sign 'where' while furrowing your eyebrows to indicate a question.
3My mommy is home.
Sign 'my' by placing a flat hand on your chest, sign 'mommy' with the thumb tapping the lower lip twice, and then sign 'home' by bringing a pinched hand from your mouth to your cheek.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between signing 'mom' and 'mommy'?
In ASL, 'mom' or 'mother' is often signed with a single tap or a slight forward bounce of the thumb on the chin or lower lip. 'Mommy' uses the exact same handshape and location but uses a distinct double tap to convey the affectionate nature of the word.
Does it matter which hand I use to sign 'mommy'?
You should use your dominant hand to sign 'mommy'. If you are right-handed, use your right hand to tap your lower lip. If you are left-handed, use your left hand. Consistency with your dominant hand helps keep your signing clear.
Why do I need to keep my fingers splayed?
Keeping your fingers slightly splayed forms the open '5' handshape, which is the standard handshape for this family of signs, including father and grandmother. Closing your fingers changes the handshape and could confuse the meaning or look unnatural.
ASL is a beautiful, expressive language. Practice regularly and have fun!