How to Sign "Pp"

To sign 'pp' (a common slang term for penis), start by forming the ASL letter 'P' with your dominant hand. Extend your index and middle fingers, tucking your thumb securely between them, and curl your ring and pinky fingers into your palm. Bring your hand up to your face, keeping your palm oriented somewhat downward and inward. Finally, gently tap the tip of your middle finger against the tip of your nose twice. Keep your wrist relaxed throughout the motion.

Examples Using "Pp" in a Sentence

1

The little boy said his pp hurt.

To sign this sentence, first establish the context by signing 'boy' and 'hurt'. Then, complete the thought by tapping the tip of your middle finger against your nose twice using the 'P' handshape to clearly indicate 'pp'.

2

He learned the sign for pp today.

Begin by signing 'he', 'learn', and 'sign' to set up the action of the sentence. Then, demonstrate the word 'pp' by forming the 'P' handshape and double-tapping the tip of your nose with your middle finger.

3

The doctor checked the baby's pp.

Start your sentence by signing the concepts for 'doctor', 'check', and 'baby' in sequence. Finish the sentence by bringing your dominant 'P' handshape up to your face and gently tapping your nose twice to sign 'pp'.

How to Sign "Pp"
To sign 'pp' (a common slang term for penis), start by forming the ASL letter 'P' with your dominant hand. Extend your index and middle fingers, tucking your thumb securely between them, and curl your ring and pinky fingers into your palm. Bring your hand up to your face, keeping your palm oriented somewhat downward and inward. Finally, gently tap the tip of your middle finger against the tip of your nose twice. Keep your wrist relaxed throughout the motion.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for 'pp' utilizes the 'P' handshape, which acts as an initialized sign for the English word 'penis'. Its placement at the nose follows a broader ASL pattern where the upper half of the face—especially the forehead and nose area—is historically associated with male-gendered signs, such as 'boy', 'father', or 'brother'. Additionally, the extended middle finger of the handshape serves as a visual classifier representing the anatomical structure, making the sign both initialized and visually logical.
Signing Tips
When practicing the sign for 'pp', focus on forming a crisp and clear 'P' handshape. Ensure your thumb is placed securely between your index and middle fingers to maintain the correct shape. Keep your wrist relaxed and use a gentle, controlled motion to tap the tip of your middle finger against the center of your nose exactly twice. Make sure your index finger stays pointing straight outward or to the side so it doesn't accidentally brush against your face during the tapping motion.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake for beginners is using a 'V' handshape (where the thumb is tucked over the ring and pinkie fingers) instead of the required 'P' handshape. Another frequent error is tapping the index finger against the nose instead of the middle finger; it is crucial that the middle finger makes contact while the index finger points outward. Finally, avoid tapping too forcefully or using a single tap, as a single tap with puffed cheeks changes the meaning to 'pee' (urinate).
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Pp" in a Sentence
1

The little boy said his pp hurt.

To sign this sentence, first establish the context by signing 'boy' and 'hurt'. Then, complete the thought by tapping the tip of your middle finger against your nose twice using the 'P' handshape to clearly indicate 'pp'.

2

He learned the sign for pp today.

Begin by signing 'he', 'learn', and 'sign' to set up the action of the sentence. Then, demonstrate the word 'pp' by forming the 'P' handshape and double-tapping the tip of your nose with your middle finger.

3

The doctor checked the baby's pp.

Start your sentence by signing the concepts for 'doctor', 'check', and 'baby' in sequence. Finish the sentence by bringing your dominant 'P' handshape up to your face and gently tapping your nose twice to sign 'pp'.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is the sign for 'pp' the same as the sign for 'pee'?

They are very similar but have a distinct difference! The sign for 'pee' (urinate) is usually done with a single touch to the nose while slightly puffing out the cheeks. The sign for 'pp' (penis) uses a double tap on the nose without puffing the cheeks.

Can I use either hand to sign 'pp'?

Yes, you should use your dominant hand to sign 'pp'. If you are right-handed, use your right hand; if you are left-handed, use your left hand. The handshape, movement, and placement on the nose remain exactly the same regardless of which hand you use.

What handshape is used for the sign 'pp'?

The sign uses the ASL letter 'P' handshape, which is identical to the 'K' handshape but oriented differently. Your index and middle fingers are extended with the thumb tucked between them, and the tip of the middle finger is what makes contact with your nose.

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