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PocketSign
PocketSign

How to Sign "Urine"

To sign 'urine' (also commonly known as 'pee'), start by forming your dominant hand into a 'P' handshape. To do this, extend your index finger, point your middle finger straight down, and rest your thumb against the side of your middle finger. Bring your hand up to your face and lightly tap the tip of your index finger against your nose twice. The movement should be small and quick.

Examples Using "Urine" in a Sentence

1

The nurse asked for a urine sample.

To sign this, you would first establish the subject by signing 'nurse', then sign 'ask'. Follow this by tapping the 'P' handshape on your nose for 'urine', and conclude with the sign for 'test' or 'sample' to complete the medical context.

2

I need to go pee.

This is a very common everyday phrase. Start by pointing to yourself for 'I', sign 'need' with a strong downward motion, and then tap the 'P' handshape on your nose twice to indicate 'urine' or 'pee'.

3

The bathroom smells like urine.

Begin by signing 'bathroom' using the 'T' handshape shaken side to side. Next, sign 'smell' by wafting your hand upward toward your nose, and finally, sign 'urine' by tapping your 'P' handshape on your nose.

How to Sign "Urine"
To sign 'urine' (also commonly known as 'pee'), start by forming your dominant hand into a 'P' handshape. To do this, extend your index finger, point your middle finger straight down, and rest your thumb against the side of your middle finger. Bring your hand up to your face and lightly tap the tip of your index finger against your nose twice. The movement should be small and quick.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for 'urine' is a classic example of an initialized sign in American Sign Language. It uses the ASL letter 'P' to represent the English word 'pee', which is the most common colloquial synonym for urine. The location of the sign is also meaningful; placing the handshape on the nose visually connects the concept to the idea of smell, which is a natural association for bodily waste and helps make the sign easier to remember.
Signing Tips
When practicing the sign for 'urine', focus on keeping your hand relaxed but maintaining a clear 'P' handshape. Make sure your middle finger is distinctly pointing downward to differentiate it from a 'K' or 'V' handshape. Keep the taps on your nose light, quick, and deliberate, using just the tip of your index finger. You don't need to move your whole arm; the motion should come primarily from a slight bend in your wrist.
Common Mistakes
A frequent mistake beginners make is using a 'V' handshape—where both the index and middle fingers point upward—instead of the correct 'P' handshape. It is crucial to keep that middle finger pointing down. Another common error is tapping the chin, cheek, or forehead instead of the nose. In ASL, location is a vital part of a sign's meaning, so tapping the wrong part of your face can completely change the word or result in nonsense.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Urine" in a Sentence
1

The nurse asked for a urine sample.

To sign this, you would first establish the subject by signing 'nurse', then sign 'ask'. Follow this by tapping the 'P' handshape on your nose for 'urine', and conclude with the sign for 'test' or 'sample' to complete the medical context.

2

I need to go pee.

This is a very common everyday phrase. Start by pointing to yourself for 'I', sign 'need' with a strong downward motion, and then tap the 'P' handshape on your nose twice to indicate 'urine' or 'pee'.

3

The bathroom smells like urine.

Begin by signing 'bathroom' using the 'T' handshape shaken side to side. Next, sign 'smell' by wafting your hand upward toward your nose, and finally, sign 'urine' by tapping your 'P' handshape on your nose.

Frequently Asked Questions
Is the sign for 'urine' the same as 'pee'?

Yes, the sign is exactly the same for both words. Whether you are in a casual setting saying 'pee' or a formal medical setting discussing 'urine', you will use the exact same 'P' handshape tapped on the nose. Context will make your specific meaning clear.

Can I use either hand to sign this?

You should always use your dominant hand to perform this sign. If you are right-handed, use your right hand to form the 'P' handshape and tap your nose. Consistency with your dominant hand helps keep your signing clear and easy for others to read.

Is this sign considered polite?

Yes, it is the standard, widely accepted sign for urine or pee in ASL. It is completely appropriate to use in both everyday, casual conversations and professional medical environments. There is no separate 'formal' sign for urine, so you can use this confidently.

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