How to Sign "Shirt"

Form either hand into an "F" handshape, fingers extended and upward except for the index finger and thumb touching at the tip. Face the palm toward the body and using the tip of the index finger and thumb pinch the shirt and give it a gentle tug one or two times.

Examples Using "Shirt" in a Sentence

1

I bought a new shirt.

Point to yourself for 'I', sign 'buy', sign 'new', and then use the 'F' handshape to pinch and tug your clothing for 'shirt'.

2

Your shirt is blue.

Point to the person for 'your', sign 'shirt' by gently tugging your own clothing with an 'F' handshape, and then sign 'blue'.

3

I need to wash my shirt.

Sign 'I', 'need', 'wash', and finish by pinching and tugging your upper garment with your index finger and thumb to sign 'shirt'.

How to Sign "Shirt"
Form either hand into an "F" handshape, fingers extended and upward except for the index finger and thumb touching at the tip. Face the palm toward the body and using the tip of the index finger and thumb pinch the shirt and give it a gentle tug one or two times.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign is highly iconic, meaning it looks exactly like the concept it represents. By physically pinching and tugging the fabric on your upper chest with your index finger and thumb, you are visually drawing attention to the clothing you are wearing. It mimics the natural action of adjusting your garment or showing off the material of your shirt.
Signing Tips
Make sure to actually pinch the fabric of the shirt you are wearing. While you can simulate the motion just above your chest if necessary, physically grasping the fabric with your 'F' handshape makes the sign feel much more natural and clear. Keep your other three fingers extended and pointing upward to maintain the correct handshape throughout the movement.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is pulling too hard or using your entire fist to grab the fabric. Remember to use only the tips of your index finger and thumb—forming the 'F' handshape—and give the fabric just a gentle tug. Another mistake is pulling the shirt outward too far; keep the movement small, crisp, and close to your body.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Shirt" in a Sentence
1

I bought a new shirt.

Point to yourself for 'I', sign 'buy', sign 'new', and then use the 'F' handshape to pinch and tug your clothing for 'shirt'.

2

Your shirt is blue.

Point to the person for 'your', sign 'shirt' by gently tugging your own clothing with an 'F' handshape, and then sign 'blue'.

3

I need to wash my shirt.

Sign 'I', 'need', 'wash', and finish by pinching and tugging your upper garment with your index finger and thumb to sign 'shirt'.

Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to be wearing a shirt to sign this?

Yes, but since you almost always are, it's easy! If you happen to be wearing a jacket, a dress, or a sweater, you still pinch the fabric on your upper chest in the exact same way to mean 'shirt'.

Which hand should I use to sign 'shirt'?

You can use either hand! It is generally best to use your dominant hand. Just form the 'F' handshape and pinch the fabric on the same side of your chest.

How many times should I tug the shirt?

Usually, one or two gentle tugs is perfect. A single, slightly larger tug can sometimes emphasize the word, but a quick double tug is the standard way to sign it in everyday conversation.

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