Lessons
PocketSign
PocketSign

How to Sign "Potato"

Form your non-dominant hand into a fist with the palm facing down to represent the potato. Form your dominant hand into a bent 'V' shape, with the index and middle fingers curved. Tap the fingertips of your dominant hand onto the back of your non-dominant fist twice.

Examples Using "Potato" in a Sentence

1

I want a baked potato.

Sign 'I', 'WANT', 'BAKE', and then tap your bent 'V' hand on the back of your fist for 'POTATO'.

2

Do you like mashed potatoes?

Sign 'YOU', 'LIKE', 'MASH', and then sign 'POTATO' by tapping the back of your steady non-dominant fist.

3

We need to buy potatoes.

Sign 'WE', 'NEED', 'BUY', and finish with the double-tap motion for 'POTATO'.

How to Sign "Potato"
Form your non-dominant hand into a fist with the palm facing down to represent the potato. Form your dominant hand into a bent 'V' shape, with the index and middle fingers curved. Tap the fingertips of your dominant hand onto the back of your non-dominant fist twice.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is highly visual. The non-dominant fist perfectly mimics the round, solid shape of a potato. The dominant hand, formed into a bent 'V', represents a two-pronged fork poking into the potato to check if it is fully cooked, or pointing out the 'eyes' of the potato.
Signing Tips
To sign 'potato' clearly, keep your non-dominant fist steady and relaxed. Your dominant hand should do all the moving. Think of your dominant hand as a small fork testing a baked potato to see if it's done. Ensure your 'V' handshape is distinctly bent, not straight, to make the sign easily recognizable.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is using a straight 'V' handshape (like the peace sign) instead of bending the index and middle fingers. Another mistake is moving both hands; remember that the non-dominant 'potato' hand should stay completely still while the dominant hand taps it.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Potato" in a Sentence
1

I want a baked potato.

Sign 'I', 'WANT', 'BAKE', and then tap your bent 'V' hand on the back of your fist for 'POTATO'.

2

Do you like mashed potatoes?

Sign 'YOU', 'LIKE', 'MASH', and then sign 'POTATO' by tapping the back of your steady non-dominant fist.

3

We need to buy potatoes.

Sign 'WE', 'NEED', 'BUY', and finish with the double-tap motion for 'POTATO'.

Frequently Asked Questions
Does it matter which hand is the fist?

Yes, your non-dominant hand should be the fist acting as the potato. Your dominant hand should be the one forming the bent 'V' shape and doing the tapping.

How many times should I tap my fist?

A standard double tap is used for the noun 'potato'. Tapping twice clearly establishes it as a noun.

Is this sign used for all types of potatoes?

Yes, this is the general sign for potato. You can add other descriptive signs before or after it to specify types, such as signing 'SWEET' before 'POTATO' for sweet potatoes.

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