How to Sign "Tiger"
To sign “Tiger”, using two hands into the claw like handshapes and the fingertips set to brushing on both of your cheeks few times. This reason why this sign is similar to tiger’s stripes on its face.
Examples Using "Tiger" in a Sentence
1
I saw a tiger at the zoo.
To sign this, you would sign 'zoo', point from your eyes outward for 'see', and then use both clawed hands brushing your cheeks to sign 'tiger'.
2
The tiger is very fast.
Sign 'tiger' by brushing your fingertips across your cheeks, then use the sign for 'fast' by snapping both 'L' hands back into 'S' handshapes.
3
My favorite animal is the tiger.
After signing 'my', 'favorite', and 'animal', finish the sentence with 'tiger' by showing the stripes on your face with your clawed hands.
How to Sign "Tiger"
To sign “Tiger”, using two hands into the claw like handshapes and the fingertips set to brushing on both of your cheeks few times. This reason why this sign is similar to tiger’s stripes on its face.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for 'tiger' is highly iconic, meaning it visually looks like the concept it represents. The clawed handshapes pulled across the cheeks directly mimic the distinct, dark stripes found on a tiger's face. By using the 'claw' handshape, the sign also subtly incorporates the fierce, feline nature of the animal while physically tracing the pattern of its fur.
Signing Tips
When signing 'tiger', make sure your hands are in a strong 'claw' shape, with your fingers curved and slightly stiff. Start near your nose and pull both hands outward toward your ears simultaneously. You want to lightly brush your fingertips against your cheeks a few times. Imagine you are literally drawing the majestic stripes onto your own face. Keep your facial expression engaged to match the context of what you are signing!
Common Mistakes
A frequent mistake beginners make is using flat hands instead of curved 'claw' shapes, which can confuse the meaning. Another common error is pulling the hands away from the face too quickly without actually brushing the cheeks. Make sure your fingertips make light contact. Additionally, avoid moving your hands up and down; the motion should be a horizontal brush outward toward your ears to properly represent the animal's stripes.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Tiger" in a Sentence
1I saw a tiger at the zoo.
To sign this, you would sign 'zoo', point from your eyes outward for 'see', and then use both clawed hands brushing your cheeks to sign 'tiger'.
2The tiger is very fast.
Sign 'tiger' by brushing your fingertips across your cheeks, then use the sign for 'fast' by snapping both 'L' hands back into 'S' handshapes.
3My favorite animal is the tiger.
After signing 'my', 'favorite', and 'animal', finish the sentence with 'tiger' by showing the stripes on your face with your clawed hands.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the sign for 'tiger' the same as 'cat'?
No, they are different! While both are felines, 'cat' is typically signed by pinching your thumb and index finger together near your mouth to show whiskers. 'Tiger' uses full clawed hands across the cheeks to show stripes.
Do I move my hands at the same time or alternate them?
You should move both hands at the exact same time. Both clawed hands start near the center of your face and brush outward across your cheeks simultaneously.
Do my fingers need to physically touch my cheeks?
Yes, your fingertips should lightly brush against your skin as you make the motion. Just be careful to brush gently so you don't accidentally scratch your face!
ASL is a beautiful, expressive language. Practice regularly and have fun!