How to Sign "Numb"

To sign *numb*, hold your non-dominant hand flat in front of you with the palm facing up. Form your dominant hand into a flat 'O' shape, bringing all your fingertips to touch your thumb pad. Bring your dominant hand down to tap your fingertips against the center of your non-dominant palm.

Examples Using "Numb" in a Sentence

1

My hands are numb from the cold.

Point to your hands, sign *cold*, and then use the sign for *numb*.

2

The dentist made my tooth numb.

Sign *dentist*, point to your tooth, and then sign *numb*.

3

My leg went numb after sitting so long.

Sign *sit* to show a long duration, point to your leg, and sign *numb*.

How to Sign "Numb"
To sign *numb*, hold your non-dominant hand flat in front of you with the palm facing up. Form your dominant hand into a flat 'O' shape, bringing all your fingertips to touch your thumb pad. Bring your dominant hand down to tap your fingertips against the center of your non-dominant palm.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The flat 'O' handshape tapping the open palm visually isolates a specific point of contact, representing the checking or registering of sensation on a localized area.
Signing Tips
Keep your non-dominant hand steady and flat to act as a clear base. Ensure your dominant hand forms a crisp flat 'O' shape, with all fingertips touching the thumb, as you tap the palm.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is using a fully open hand or a closed fist instead of the flat 'O' handshape. Make sure your fingertips are pinched together with your thumb when making contact with your palm.
Regional Variations
While the localized tap shown here is one way to convey the concept, a widely used variation across many regions is the compound sign combining *feel* and *nothing* (or *none*).
Examples Using "Numb" in a Sentence
1

My hands are numb from the cold.

Point to your hands, sign *cold*, and then use the sign for *numb*.

2

The dentist made my tooth numb.

Sign *dentist*, point to your tooth, and then sign *numb*.

3

My leg went numb after sitting so long.

Sign *sit* to show a long duration, point to your leg, and sign *numb*.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is there another common way to sign numb?

Yes! A very common alternative is a compound sign where you sign *feel* (middle finger brushing up the chest) followed immediately by *nothing* (both 'O' hands moving outward).

How do I specify what part of my body is numb?

Context is key in ASL. You should point to or sign the specific body part—such as your mouth, arm, or leg—right before signing *numb* to make your meaning clear.

Should I use a specific facial expression?

Yes, facial expressions are an important part of ASL. When signing *numb*, a blank, stiff, or slightly uncomfortable expression helps convey the lack of physical sensation.

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