How to Sign "Whore"
To sign 'whore', cup the hand slightly and bring it up to the face. With the palm facing the ear, rest the side of the hand against the cheek. Drag the hand down and out across the cheek.
Examples Using "Whore" in a Sentence
1
The movie featured a character who was a whore.
Sign 'MOVIE', 'HAVE', 'CHARACTER', then sign 'WHORE' by cupping your hand, resting the side against your cheek, and dragging it down and out.
2
He insulted her by calling her a whore.
Sign 'HE', 'INSULT', 'HER', 'CALL', then perform the sign for 'WHORE' by dragging the side of your slightly cupped hand down your cheek.
3
That word is considered a very strong insult.
Sign 'THAT', 'WORD' (then sign 'WHORE' using the downward cheek-dragging motion to specify the word), followed by 'STRONG' and 'INSULT'.
How to Sign "Whore"
To sign 'whore', cup the hand slightly and bring it up to the face. With the palm facing the ear, rest the side of the hand against the cheek. Drag the hand down and out across the cheek.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The visual motivation for this sign is historically linked to the exaggerated application of makeup, specifically rouge or blush on the cheeks. The cupped hand dragging down the cheek mimics applying this heavy makeup, which was stereotypically associated with the profession in the past.
Signing Tips
Keep your hand slightly cupped, similar to a loose 'C' or relaxed 'B' handshape. Ensure the contact is made with the side of your index finger/hand against your cheek, not the palm itself. The movement should be a single, deliberate drag down and slightly outward.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is using a completely flat hand instead of a slightly cupped hand, which can make the sign look like a different word. Another mistake is dragging the hand too far down the neck instead of stopping at the lower jawline.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Whore" in a Sentence
1The movie featured a character who was a whore.
Sign 'MOVIE', 'HAVE', 'CHARACTER', then sign 'WHORE' by cupping your hand, resting the side against your cheek, and dragging it down and out.
2He insulted her by calling her a whore.
Sign 'HE', 'INSULT', 'HER', 'CALL', then perform the sign for 'WHORE' by dragging the side of your slightly cupped hand down your cheek.
3That word is considered a very strong insult.
Sign 'THAT', 'WORD' (then sign 'WHORE' using the downward cheek-dragging motion to specify the word), followed by 'STRONG' and 'INSULT'.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this sign considered offensive in ASL?
Yes, just like its English counterpart, this sign carries a heavy, derogatory weight. It is considered a strong profanity or insult and should only be used when contextually necessary, such as quoting someone directly.
Does my hand need to physically touch my cheek?
Yes, the side of your slightly cupped hand should make light physical contact with your cheek as you drag it downward and outward to execute the sign correctly.
Is this the exact same sign for 'prostitute'?
This sign is frequently used for both words. While 'prostitute' is sometimes signed with an initialized 'P' handshape doing the same motion in certain regions, the cupped hand version is widely understood for the general concept.
ASL is a beautiful, expressive language. Practice regularly and have fun!