How to Sign "Seal"
A large marine mammal with a streamlined body
Examples Using "Seal" in a Sentence
1
I saw a seal at the aquarium.
Point to yourself, sign 'see', sign 'seal', and then sign 'aquarium'.
2
The seal is swimming fast.
Sign 'seal', then use a swimming motion with your hands, followed by the sign for 'fast'.
3
Seals love to eat fish.
Sign 'seal', sign 'love', sign 'eat', and finish with the sign for 'fish'.
How to Sign "Seal"
A large marine mammal with a streamlined body
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is highly iconic, visually representing the physical characteristics of the animal. The crossed arms and flapping hands directly mimic the way a seal claps its front flippers together.
Signing Tips
Make sure your arms are crossed at the wrists, not higher up on the forearms. Keep your hands flat and relaxed as you flap them, making the movement look natural and fluid, just like a seal clapping its flippers together.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is crossing the arms too high up near the elbows, which restricts the flapping motion. Another mistake is keeping the hands too stiff; they should flap loosely and comfortably from the wrists.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Seal" in a Sentence
1I saw a seal at the aquarium.
Point to yourself, sign 'see', sign 'seal', and then sign 'aquarium'.
2The seal is swimming fast.
Sign 'seal', then use a swimming motion with your hands, followed by the sign for 'fast'.
3Seals love to eat fish.
Sign 'seal', sign 'love', sign 'eat', and finish with the sign for 'fish'.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does it matter which arm is on top when I cross my wrists?
No, it doesn't matter which arm is on top. You can cross your right over your left or your left over your right, whichever feels more natural and comfortable for you.
How many times should I flap my hands?
Usually, two or three flaps are enough to clearly convey the sign. You don't need to flap continuously unless you are specifically emphasizing a seal clapping for a long time.
Can I use this sign for a seal on a document?
No, this sign is specifically for the marine mammal. For a physical seal or stamp on a letter or document, you would use a completely different sign that mimics the action of stamping.
ASL is a beautiful, expressive language. Practice regularly and have fun!