To sign "rum," you simply fingerspell the word. Form the letter 'R' by crossing your index and middle fingers. Next, transition to the letter 'U' by pointing your index and middle fingers straight up and keeping them together. Finally, form the letter 'M' by folding your index, middle, and ring fingers over your thumb. Keep your hand steady and your palm facing outward throughout the spelling.
Point to yourself for 'I', sign 'ORDER', fingerspell R-U-M, and then sign 'COKE'.
Point to the person for 'YOU', sign 'LIKE', and fingerspell R-U-M. Remember to raise your eyebrows since this is a yes/no question.
Sign 'THIS CAKE', then 'HAVE', fingerspell R-U-M, and finish by signing 'INSIDE'.
Point to yourself for 'I', sign 'ORDER', fingerspell R-U-M, and then sign 'COKE'.
Point to the person for 'YOU', sign 'LIKE', and fingerspell R-U-M. Remember to raise your eyebrows since this is a yes/no question.
Sign 'THIS CAKE', then 'HAVE', fingerspell R-U-M, and finish by signing 'INSIDE'.
No, 'rum' is typically fingerspelled. Because it is a short, three-letter word, fingerspelling is the most efficient and standard way to express it in ASL. There is no widely accepted single sign for it.
As a beginner, you should always focus on clarity over speed. Make sure each letter (R, U, M) is clear and distinct. Speed will naturally develop as your muscle memory improves with the letter transitions.
Keep your dominant hand comfortably raised near your shoulder or upper chest area, often called the 'sightline.' Your palm should generally face outward toward the person you are conversing with.
