How to Sign "Socks"

To sign 'socks', form both hands into '1' handshapes by extending your index fingers and curling your remaining fingers. Point your index fingers downward and bring your hands together in front of your chest so the sides of your index fingers are touching. Move your hands up and down in an alternating motion, brushing the sides of your index fingers against each other a few times.

Examples Using "Socks" in a Sentence

1

Please put on your socks.

Sign 'please', then 'put on', and finish with the sign for 'socks' by using the alternating rubbing motion with your downward-pointing index fingers.

2

I need to buy new socks.

Point to yourself for 'I', sign 'need', 'buy', 'new', and then sign 'socks' by brushing the sides of your index fingers together.

3

Where are my socks?

Sign 'my', then 'socks', and finish with the sign for 'where' while furrowing your eyebrows to indicate a 'wh-' question.

How to Sign "Socks"
To sign 'socks', form both hands into '1' handshapes by extending your index fingers and curling your remaining fingers. Point your index fingers downward and bring your hands together in front of your chest so the sides of your index fingers are touching. Move your hands up and down in an alternating motion, brushing the sides of your index fingers against each other a few times.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The visual motivation for this sign is often linked to the traditional method of making socks. The alternating movement of the two index fingers brushing against each other mimics the motion of two knitting needles working together to knit a pair of socks.
Signing Tips
Keep the movement relaxed and fluid. Your index fingers don't need to press hard against each other; a light, quick brushing motion is perfect. Make sure your fingers are pointing down toward your feet, which helps establish the context of the sign.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is pointing the index fingers up instead of down. If your index fingers point up toward the sky while making this alternating brushing motion, you are actually signing 'star' instead of 'socks'. Another mistake is moving both hands up and down at the same time rather than alternating them.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Socks" in a Sentence
1

Please put on your socks.

Sign 'please', then 'put on', and finish with the sign for 'socks' by using the alternating rubbing motion with your downward-pointing index fingers.

2

I need to buy new socks.

Point to yourself for 'I', sign 'need', 'buy', 'new', and then sign 'socks' by brushing the sides of your index fingers together.

3

Where are my socks?

Sign 'my', then 'socks', and finish with the sign for 'where' while furrowing your eyebrows to indicate a 'wh-' question.

Frequently Asked Questions
How is the sign for 'socks' different from 'star'?

Both signs use '1' handshapes and an alternating brushing motion. However, for 'star', your index fingers point up toward the sky. For 'socks', your index fingers point down toward your feet.

Do I need to reach down and touch my actual socks?

No, the sign for 'socks' is made in the neutral space right in front of your chest. You don't need to bend over or point directly at your feet to be understood.

Does it matter which hand moves up first?

Not at all! As long as your hands are moving in a continuous, alternating up-and-down pattern while brushing against each other, the sign is perfectly clear.

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