How to Sign "Slay"

To sign 'slay,' hold your non-dominant hand flat in front of you with the palm facing down. Form a '1' handshape with your dominant hand by extending your index finger. Slide your dominant index finger forward and slightly downward underneath your non-dominant hand.

Examples Using "Slay" in a Sentence

1

The hero slayed the dragon.

Start by signing 'hero' and 'dragon' to establish your subjects, then finish with the sign for 'slay' to show the hero's victorious action.

2

He slayed the monster in the video game.

Sign 'video game' to set the context, point to 'him,' sign 'monster,' and then use the 'slay' sign to describe defeating the creature.

3

The warrior will slay the enemy.

Establish the 'warrior' and the 'enemy' in your signing space, then use the 'slay' sign moving forward to indicate the decisive action.

How to Sign "Slay"
To sign 'slay,' hold your non-dominant hand flat in front of you with the palm facing down. Form a '1' handshape with your dominant hand by extending your index finger. Slide your dominant index finger forward and slightly downward underneath your non-dominant hand.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This sign's visual logic is highly iconic, representing a weapon piercing or sliding into a body. The flat non-dominant hand acts as a stationary surface or the subject being acted upon, while the dominant index finger mimics a blade or spear striking underneath it.
Signing Tips
To make this sign look natural, keep your non-dominant hand steady and flat, acting as a clear reference point. Ensure your dominant index finger slides smoothly underneath it, moving forward and slightly down. Adding a decisive, sharp movement helps convey the intensity of the word.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake beginners make is sliding the dominant hand over the top of the non-dominant hand instead of underneath it. Another error is using a full flat hand for the dominant hand; remember that it must be in a '1' handshape.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Slay" in a Sentence
1

The hero slayed the dragon.

Start by signing 'hero' and 'dragon' to establish your subjects, then finish with the sign for 'slay' to show the hero's victorious action.

2

He slayed the monster in the video game.

Sign 'video game' to set the context, point to 'him,' sign 'monster,' and then use the 'slay' sign to describe defeating the creature.

3

The warrior will slay the enemy.

Establish the 'warrior' and the 'enemy' in your signing space, then use the 'slay' sign moving forward to indicate the decisive action.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use this sign for the slang word 'slay' (meaning to do something perfectly)?

While this is the literal sign for 'slay' or 'kill,' ASL often uses different signs to express doing something amazingly well, such as 'perfect,' 'wow,' or 'champ.' However, some signers playfully use this literal sign for the slang meaning.

Does my dominant hand need to touch my non-dominant hand?

Your dominant index finger can lightly brush the underside of your non-dominant hand as it slides forward, but it doesn't have to press firmly against it. A smooth, close gliding motion works best.

Is this the same sign as 'kill'?

Yes, the sign for 'slay' is the exact same sign used for 'kill' or 'murder' in ASL. The specific English translation is understood based on the context of your sentence.

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