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How to Sign "Word"

To sign “Word”, Using an extended index non-dominant finger stay front of you. Another hand which is the dominant hand into “G” handshape or extend the thumb and index finger tips touch on the side of non-dominant extended finger.

Examples Using "Word" in a Sentence

1

What does that word mean?

Point to the concept in question, sign 'WORD' by touching your dominant 'G' handshape against the side of your non-dominant index finger, and then sign 'MEAN' while furrowing your eyebrows to indicate a question.

2

I don't know that word.

Point to yourself for 'I', sign 'KNOW' while shaking your head to indicate the negative, and finish with the sign for 'WORD' using your dominant thumb and index finger against your non-dominant index finger.

3

Can you fingerspell that word?

Sign 'YOU', then 'FINGERSPELL' by wiggling your dominant fingers while moving your hand slightly outward, and finally sign 'WORD' by tapping your 'G' handshape against your stationary non-dominant index finger.

How to Sign "Word"
To sign “Word”, Using an extended index non-dominant finger stay front of you. Another hand which is the dominant hand into “G” handshape or extend the thumb and index finger tips touch on the side of non-dominant extended finger.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
The sign for 'word' is highly visual and conceptually grounded. The non-dominant extended index finger represents a continuous line of text or a full sentence. The dominant hand, formed into a 'G' handshape, acts like a pair of calipers measuring out a small, specific segment of that line, illustrating a single 'word' taken from a larger thought.
Signing Tips
Keep your non-dominant index finger steady and pointing upward or slightly forward. When bringing your dominant 'G' handshape to touch it, ensure only the tips of your thumb and index finger make contact. Think of your dominant hand as holding a tiny object right against the side of your non-dominant finger.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is using a full 'C' handshape instead of the narrower 'G' handshape, which makes the sign look too large and can confuse it with other signs. Another frequent error is tapping the top or front of the non-dominant finger rather than the side.
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "Word" in a Sentence
1

What does that word mean?

Point to the concept in question, sign 'WORD' by touching your dominant 'G' handshape against the side of your non-dominant index finger, and then sign 'MEAN' while furrowing your eyebrows to indicate a question.

2

I don't know that word.

Point to yourself for 'I', sign 'KNOW' while shaking your head to indicate the negative, and finish with the sign for 'WORD' using your dominant thumb and index finger against your non-dominant index finger.

3

Can you fingerspell that word?

Sign 'YOU', then 'FINGERSPELL' by wiggling your dominant fingers while moving your hand slightly outward, and finally sign 'WORD' by tapping your 'G' handshape against your stationary non-dominant index finger.

Frequently Asked Questions
Does it matter which hand forms the 'G' shape?

Yes, you should always use your dominant hand for the 'G' handshape that does the moving and touching. Your non-dominant hand serves as the stationary base with the extended index finger.

Should I tap the finger once or twice?

Typically, you touch the side of your non-dominant index finger just once for the standard sign. While you might see a slight double tap in casual, rapid conversation, a single, clear touch is the most accurate way for beginners to practice.

How is this different from the sign for 'vocabulary'?

The sign for 'vocabulary' uses a 'V' handshape on the dominant hand tapping against the non-dominant index finger. The sign for 'word' uses the 'G' handshape (just the thumb and index finger) touching the exact same spot.

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