How to Sign "World"

the sign 'world' uses both hands. Bring the pinkies and thumbs of both hands together so the thumbs are touching their pinkies, making the W hand shape. Rest the side of the dominant hand on top of the side of the non-dominant hand. Bring the dominant hand out and around the non-dominant before resting on top of it again. This will look like a planet in orbit.

Examples Using "World" in a Sentence

1

She travels all over the world.

Sign 'travel' and then sign 'world' by forming 'W' handshapes, resting your dominant hand on the non-dominant, and circling it around to represent the globe.

2

The world is a very big place.

Sign 'world' using the circular 'W' handshape motion, followed by the sign for 'big' to emphasize the massive size of the planet.

3

I want to change the world.

Point to yourself for 'I', sign 'want', sign 'change', and finish with 'world' by orbiting your dominant 'W' hand around your stationary non-dominant 'W' hand.

How to Sign "World"
the sign 'world' uses both hands. Bring the pinkies and thumbs of both hands together so the thumbs are touching their pinkies, making the W hand shape. Rest the side of the dominant hand on top of the side of the non-dominant hand. Bring the dominant hand out and around the non-dominant before resting on top of it again. This will look like a planet in orbit.
Visual Logic(Etymology)
This is an initialized sign, meaning it incorporates the first letter of the English word. It uses the 'W' handshape for 'world.' The circular motion of the dominant hand visually represents the round shape of the globe or a planet orbiting in space.
Signing Tips
Keep your non-dominant hand relatively still as an anchor while your dominant hand does the orbiting motion. Make sure the circle is smooth and complete, starting and ending with the side of the dominant hand resting on top of the non-dominant hand.
Common Mistakes
A common mistake is moving both hands equally in a circle. Remember that the non-dominant hand should stay mostly stationary. Another frequent error is using an open '5' handshape instead of the specific 'W' handshape (index, middle, and ring fingers extended).
Regional Variations
This sign is widely used and understood across the ASL community with minimal regional variation.
Examples Using "World" in a Sentence
1

She travels all over the world.

Sign 'travel' and then sign 'world' by forming 'W' handshapes, resting your dominant hand on the non-dominant, and circling it around to represent the globe.

2

The world is a very big place.

Sign 'world' using the circular 'W' handshape motion, followed by the sign for 'big' to emphasize the massive size of the planet.

3

I want to change the world.

Point to yourself for 'I', sign 'want', sign 'change', and finish with 'world' by orbiting your dominant 'W' hand around your stationary non-dominant 'W' hand.

Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the signs for 'world' and 'year'?

Both signs use a similar orbiting motion where the dominant hand circles the non-dominant hand. However, 'world' uses the 'W' handshape on both hands, while 'year' uses the 'S' handshape (closed fists) on both hands.

Do both hands move when signing 'world'?

No, your non-dominant hand acts as a stationary base or anchor. Only your dominant hand should make the circular, orbiting motion around the non-dominant hand before coming back to rest on top of it.

Does it matter which way the dominant hand circles?

Yes, the dominant hand should move forward, out, and around the non-dominant hand. It moves away from your body first before circling back towards you to rest on top of the base hand.

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