How to Sign "Saliva"

To sign 'saliva', form a '4' handshape with your dominant hand, keeping your fingers spread apart. Place the side of your index finger near the corner of your mouth. Move your hand downward in a short, straight motion, representing the liquid dripping from the mouth.

Examples Using "Saliva" in a Sentence

1

The dog's saliva was everywhere.

Sign 'dog', then sign 'saliva' by moving the '4' handshape down from your mouth, and finish with a sweeping gesture to indicate 'everywhere'.

2

Wipe the saliva off your chin.

Start with the sign for 'saliva' at the corner of your mouth, then mime the action of wiping your chin with a cloth or your hand.

3

Babies produce a lot of saliva.

Sign 'baby' by cradling your arms, then sign 'saliva', and follow it with the sign for 'a lot' to show the large amount.

How to Sign "Saliva"
To sign 'saliva', form a '4' handshape with your dominant hand, keeping your fingers spread apart. Place the side of your index finger near the corner of your mouth. Move your hand downward in a short, straight motion, representing the liquid dripping from the mouth.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is highly iconic and visually motivated. The spread fingers of the '4' handshape are often used in ASL to represent the flow or dripping of liquid. By placing this handshape at the mouth and moving it downward, the sign creates a clear visual representation of saliva or drool falling.
Signing Tips
Keep your fingers clearly spread apart in the '4' handshape to effectively represent the flow of liquid. Ensure the motion starts right at the corner of your mouth and moves straight down. You can adjust your facial expression depending on whether you are discussing saliva in a neutral, medical context or reacting to messy drool.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is using only the index finger instead of all four fingers, which can make the sign look like 'sour' or 'tell' depending on the exact movement. Another mistake is starting the sign too high on the cheek rather than at the corner of the mouth.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Saliva" in a Sentence
1

The dog's saliva was everywhere.

Sign 'dog', then sign 'saliva' by moving the '4' handshape down from your mouth, and finish with a sweeping gesture to indicate 'everywhere'.

2

Wipe the saliva off your chin.

Start with the sign for 'saliva' at the corner of your mouth, then mime the action of wiping your chin with a cloth or your hand.

3

Babies produce a lot of saliva.

Sign 'baby' by cradling your arms, then sign 'saliva', and follow it with the sign for 'a lot' to show the large amount.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is this sign the same as the sign for 'drool'?

Yes, this sign is commonly used for both 'saliva' and 'drool'. The context of your sentence will help clarify whether you are talking about the biological fluid or the action of drooling.

Can I use this sign to mean 'spit'?

While they are related, 'spit' is usually signed differently. 'Spit' typically involves a more forceful, outward movement away from the mouth to show the action of spitting, whereas 'saliva' focuses on the liquid itself dripping down.

Does it matter which hand I use?

You should use your dominant hand for this sign. Place it at the corner of your mouth on the same side as your dominant hand for the most natural movement.

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