How to Sign "Urinate"

To sign 'urinate' (or 'pee'), form your dominant hand into a 'P' handshape by extending your index finger up, pointing your middle finger forward, and resting your thumb on the side of your middle finger. Bring your hand up to your face and lightly tap the tip of your middle finger against the tip of your nose twice.

Examples Using "Urinate" in a Sentence

1

I need to urinate before we leave.

Point to yourself, sign 'need', sign 'urinate' by tapping the 'P' handshape on your nose, and then sign 'leave'.

2

The dog has to urinate outside.

Sign 'dog', 'must', 'urinate', and then 'outside' to convey that the pet needs to go out.

3

Did the baby urinate in their diaper?

Sign 'baby', 'urinate', and 'diaper', raising your eyebrows at the end to indicate a yes/no question.

How to Sign "Urinate"
To sign 'urinate' (or 'pee'), form your dominant hand into a 'P' handshape by extending your index finger up, pointing your middle finger forward, and resting your thumb on the side of your middle finger. Bring your hand up to your face and lightly tap the tip of your middle finger against the tip of your nose twice.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This is an initialized sign. It uses the ASL letter 'P' (standing for the colloquial English word 'pee') placed on the nose, a location sometimes associated with bodily functions or smells in ASL.
Signing Tips
Make sure you are using a clear 'P' handshape rather than a 'V' or 'K' handshape. The movement should be a gentle, quick double tap of the middle finger directly on the tip of your nose.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is tapping the index finger on the nose instead of the middle finger, or tapping the chin or cheek instead of the nose.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Urinate" in a Sentence
1

I need to urinate before we leave.

Point to yourself, sign 'need', sign 'urinate' by tapping the 'P' handshape on your nose, and then sign 'leave'.

2

The dog has to urinate outside.

Sign 'dog', 'must', 'urinate', and then 'outside' to convey that the pet needs to go out.

3

Did the baby urinate in their diaper?

Sign 'baby', 'urinate', and 'diaper', raising your eyebrows at the end to indicate a yes/no question.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is this sign appropriate to use in formal settings?

While this sign is the standard way to say 'pee' or 'urinate' in ASL and is widely accepted, in highly formal or polite situations, you might simply sign 'bathroom' or 'restroom' to excuse yourself.

Can I use this sign for pets?

Yes! This sign is used universally for people and animals. If your dog needs to go out, you can absolutely use this sign.

Do I have to tap my nose twice?

Yes, a double tap is standard. Tapping just once might look like an incomplete sign or be confused with simply pointing at your nose.

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