How to Sign "Welcome"

the sign 'welcome' uses both hands. with both hands flat, point the palms up towards the ceiling. extend both arms in front of you, with one elbow slightly bent so the fingertips of one hand are near the end of the palm of the other. bring the two hands in towards you.

Examples Using "Welcome" in a Sentence

1

Welcome to our home!

Sign 'welcome' by extending both flat, palm-up hands and bringing them toward your body, then sign 'our' and 'home'. The inward motion perfectly matches the idea of bringing someone into your space.

2

You are welcome to join us.

Use the two-handed 'welcome' sign to physically gesture the invitation, pulling your hands inward to show you are bringing them into your group, followed by the sign for 'join'.

3

Welcome to the ASL class.

Start with the two-handed 'welcome' sign, smoothly pulling your flat hands toward your torso, then sign 'ASL' and 'class'. Make sure your facial expression looks warm and inviting!

How to Sign "Welcome"
the sign 'welcome' uses both hands. with both hands flat, point the palms up towards the ceiling. extend both arms in front of you, with one elbow slightly bent so the fingertips of one hand are near the end of the palm of the other. bring the two hands in towards you.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The visual logic of this sign is highly iconic. By extending your open, palm-up hands and drawing them inward toward your body, you are physically mimicking the action of ushering someone into your personal space, visually representing a warm, open invitation.
Signing Tips
Focus on the welcoming, inviting nature of the sign. Keep your hands flat and relaxed with the palms facing up. As you bring your hands toward your body, make sure your facial expression matches the warmth of a greeting—a genuine smile is essential! Keep the movement smooth and fluid.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is curling the fingers or making fists as you pull the hands inward. Keep both hands flat and open throughout the entire motion. Another mistake is pulling the hands too high up to the chest; keep the movement natural, ending around your lower torso.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Welcome" in a Sentence
1

Welcome to our home!

Sign 'welcome' by extending both flat, palm-up hands and bringing them toward your body, then sign 'our' and 'home'. The inward motion perfectly matches the idea of bringing someone into your space.

2

You are welcome to join us.

Use the two-handed 'welcome' sign to physically gesture the invitation, pulling your hands inward to show you are bringing them into your group, followed by the sign for 'join'.

3

Welcome to the ASL class.

Start with the two-handed 'welcome' sign, smoothly pulling your flat hands toward your torso, then sign 'ASL' and 'class'. Make sure your facial expression looks warm and inviting!

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use this sign to say 'you're welcome' after someone says 'thank you'?

No, this specific two-handed sign is used for greeting someone or inviting them into a physical space. To say 'you're welcome' after a 'thank you,' you typically just nod, sign 'fine,' or use the sign for 'nothing'.

Does it matter which hand is closer to my body?

Generally, your dominant hand will be the one slightly further out, while your non-dominant hand is closer to your body. However, the sign is easily understood either way. Just ensure both palms are facing up and moving inward together.

How fast should I move my hands?

The movement should be smooth, warm, and at a moderate pace. Moving your hands too quickly can make the sign feel aggressive or demanding, like a command to come over, rather than a polite and friendly welcome.

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