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How to Sign "Sweatshirt"

To sign 'sweatshirt', you will combine the signs for 'sweater' and 'shirt'. Start by forming both hands into closed fists near your shoulders, then pull them downward to your chest as if you are pulling a sweater down over your body. Finish the sign by dropping your non-dominant hand and using your dominant hand's thumb and index finger to pinch your clothing near your upper chest, tugging it outward slightly.

Examples Using "Sweatshirt" in a Sentence

1

I need to wash my favorite sweatshirt.

Sign 'my favorite' by pointing to yourself and tapping your middle finger on your chin. Then, perform the two-part 'sweatshirt' sign by pulling the imaginary sweater down and tugging your shirt.

2

It's cold outside, so I'm wearing a sweatshirt.

Start by signing 'cold' by shivering with both fists in front of you. Then, indicate you are wearing a sweatshirt by signing 'sweater' followed immediately by the 'shirt' tug.

3

Did you buy a new sweatshirt?

Raise your eyebrows to indicate a yes/no question. Sign 'you buy new', and then finish with the compound sign for 'sweatshirt', keeping your eyebrows raised throughout the sentence.

How to Sign "Sweatshirt"
To sign 'sweatshirt', you will combine the signs for 'sweater' and 'shirt'. Start by forming both hands into closed fists near your shoulders, then pull them downward to your chest as if you are pulling a sweater down over your body. Finish the sign by dropping your non-dominant hand and using your dominant hand's thumb and index finger to pinch your clothing near your upper chest, tugging it outward slightly.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for 'sweatshirt' is a wonderful example of a compound sign in ASL, blending two highly visual and iconic gestures. The first half of the sign directly mimics the physical action of pulling a thick, warm sweater down over your head and shoulders. The second half utilizes the standard ASL sign for 'shirt', which draws attention to the garment itself by physically tugging on the fabric on your upper chest. Together, they visually describe the specific type of clothing.
Signing Tips
Since 'sweatshirt' is a compound sign made up of 'sweater' and 'shirt', the key to signing it naturally is focusing on a smooth, fluid transition between the two distinct movements. You do not need to exaggerate the initial 'sweater' pull too far down your body; a quick downward motion from your shoulders to your upper chest is perfectly sufficient. Once your hands reach your chest, immediately drop your non-dominant hand and transition your dominant hand into the 'shirt' tug. Keep the tugging motion light, quick, and relaxed.
Common Mistakes
A very common mistake for beginners is pausing for too long between the 'sweater' and 'shirt' portions of the sign. This awkward pause makes it look like you are talking about two completely separate items of clothing rather than a single sweatshirt. Another frequent error is forgetting the second part entirely, which changes your intended meaning to just 'sweater'. Finally, make sure you don't pull the imaginary sweater down past your waist; keep the signing space contained to your upper torso for a natural look.
Regional Variations
Some signers may sign 'sweatshirt' by combining the sign for 'sweat' (wiping an imaginary drop of sweat from the forehead with an index finger) and 'shirt', rather than using the 'sweater' plus 'shirt' combination.
Examples Using "Sweatshirt" in a Sentence
1

I need to wash my favorite sweatshirt.

Sign 'my favorite' by pointing to yourself and tapping your middle finger on your chin. Then, perform the two-part 'sweatshirt' sign by pulling the imaginary sweater down and tugging your shirt.

2

It's cold outside, so I'm wearing a sweatshirt.

Start by signing 'cold' by shivering with both fists in front of you. Then, indicate you are wearing a sweatshirt by signing 'sweater' followed immediately by the 'shirt' tug.

3

Did you buy a new sweatshirt?

Raise your eyebrows to indicate a yes/no question. Sign 'you buy new', and then finish with the compound sign for 'sweatshirt', keeping your eyebrows raised throughout the sentence.

Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to actually grab my shirt for the second part?

Yes, for the 'shirt' portion of the sign, it is standard to lightly pinch and tug the actual fabric of the shirt you are currently wearing. If you are wearing a tight shirt or a swimsuit where you can't easily grab fabric, simply mimic the pinching and tugging motion near your upper chest.

Is 'sweatshirt' signed the same way as 'hoodie'?

No, they have different signs. While 'sweatshirt' uses the 'sweater' and 'shirt' combination, 'hoodie' is signed by bringing both hands up to the sides of your head and pulling forward, mimicking the action of pulling a hood over your head.

Can I just sign 'sweater' if I mean sweatshirt?

While people might understand you from context, 'sweater' and 'sweatshirt' are technically different signs. Adding the 'shirt' tug at the end clarifies that you mean a casual, cotton sweatshirt rather than a heavy, knitted winter sweater.

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