Lessons
PocketSign
PocketSign

How to Sign "Romania"

To sign *Romania*, start with both hands in loose 'C' or curved '5' shapes in front of your chest, palms facing each other and hands slightly apart. Bring your hands downwards and together, closing your fingers to meet your thumbs so that both hands form flat 'O' shapes as their fingertips meet in the middle.

Examples Using "Romania" in a Sentence

1

I want to visit Romania.

Sign 'WANT', 'VISIT', and then perform the sign for 'ROMANIA' by bringing your curved hands together into flat 'O' shapes.

2

Romania has beautiful castles.

Sign 'ROMANIA', then 'HAVE', 'BEAUTIFUL', and 'CASTLE'.

3

My friend is from Romania.

Sign 'MY', 'FRIEND', 'FROM', and finish with the sign for 'ROMANIA'.

How to Sign "Romania"
To sign *Romania*, start with both hands in loose 'C' or curved '5' shapes in front of your chest, palms facing each other and hands slightly apart. Bring your hands downwards and together, closing your fingers to meet your thumbs so that both hands form flat 'O' shapes as their fingertips meet in the middle.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The visual logic of this sign involves tracing a shape that tapers and comes together. This downward, converging motion is often associated with outlining the geographical shape of the country or representing a traditional element of Romanian culture, such as the sweeping landscape of the Carpathian Mountains. The movement creates a distinct, recognizable visual profile.
Signing Tips
Focus on a smooth, fluid motion as you bring your hands together. Start with your fingers relaxed and curved, and let them naturally close into the flat 'O' shape as your hands meet. Keep the sign centered comfortably in front of your chest. Make sure both hands mirror each other perfectly throughout the movement to keep the sign clear and easy to read.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is completely closing the hands into fists ('S' or 'A' shapes) instead of stopping at the flat 'O' handshape. Make sure your fingertips are touching your thumbs, not curled into your palms. Additionally, ensure the movement goes downwards and together, rather than straight across. Beginners sometimes make the motion too wide; keep it compact and centered.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Romania" in a Sentence
1

I want to visit Romania.

Sign 'WANT', 'VISIT', and then perform the sign for 'ROMANIA' by bringing your curved hands together into flat 'O' shapes.

2

Romania has beautiful castles.

Sign 'ROMANIA', then 'HAVE', 'BEAUTIFUL', and 'CASTLE'.

3

My friend is from Romania.

Sign 'MY', 'FRIEND', 'FROM', and finish with the sign for 'ROMANIA'.

Frequently Asked Questions
Should my hands touch at the end of the sign?

Yes, as your hands move downwards and close into flat 'O' shapes, your fingertips should meet or come very close together in the center. This contact completes the visual shape of the sign.

Is this the only sign for Romania?

While this is a common and widely understood sign, some signers may use an initialized version with an 'R' handshape crossing the chest. However, the version shown here is highly visual, standard, and widely recognized in the Deaf community.

What exactly is a flat 'O' handshape?

A flat 'O' handshape is made by pressing all of your fingertips against your thumb pad, keeping your fingers relatively straight rather than curled into a round 'O'. It looks similar to a duck's bill.

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