Signing your name is one of the most fundamental parts of learning sign language. Just like a written signature represents your unique identity, your sign name bears your identity in the Deaf community. There are a few key things to know about sign names as you embark on learning this vital part of sign language.
What is a Sign Name?
A sign name is a unique personal sign that is given to identify someone in the sign language community. It functions like a name in spoken languages and is used to refer to and address that person in sign language conversations. Sign names are an important part of Deaf culture and help create a sense of belonging and identity.
Sign names are composed of one or two distinctive hand shapes, locations on the body or in space, and movements. They are visual representations of a person’s identity and are far more intuitive and expressive than finger-spelled names. Sign names are given thoughtfully and meaningfully, often reflecting something about the person’s personality, appearance, background, or noteworthy life events.
Who Gets a Sign Name?
Not everyone automatically gets a sign name. Traditionally, sign names are given to people who are part of the Deaf community, use sign language regularly, and participate in Deaf culture. This includes deaf individuals, interpreters, children of deaf adults (CODAs), and hearing people who work closely with the Deaf community. However, some deaf people may choose to keep using their finger-spelled names and not adopt a unique sign name.
Sign names are deeply personal and are not randomly created or self-selected. The Deaf community takes great care in assigning meaningful and appropriate sign names to members. If you are learning sign language as a hearing person, you will likely use your finger-spelled name rather than being given a unique sign name.
How Are Sign Names Given?
The Deaf community has its own customs around giving and using sign names. Here are some common practices:
- Sign names are bestowed by respected and experienced members of the Deaf community.
- They are given to mark major life events or acceptance into the community.
- The meaning and stories behind sign names are passed down within the community.
- Only trusted members use a person’s sign name when addressing them.
- It is rude to assign a sign name without permission or use a sign name casually.
- Sign names may evolve over time or change with major life events.
The giving of a sign name is an honored tradition and reflects a meaningful relationship between the naming member and the recipient. Sign names are deeply valued as a part of Deaf identity and culture.
Signing Your Own Name
When introducing yourself or identifying yourself in sign language, you will generally fingerspell your first and last name. For example, point to yourself and spell out J-O-H-N S-M-I-T-H. This allows you to share your full written name.
If you have been given a sign name by the Deaf community, you can introduce yourself with your sign name followed by fingerspelling your name, such as SIGN NAME + J-O-H-N S-M-I-T-H. Only use your sign name if it was thoughtfully given by the community.
Modifying Sign Names
There are ways to modify sign names to indicate possessiveness or reference someone else:
- To make a sign name possessive, sign it closer to your body.
- To refer to someone else, shift your body and eye gaze to point to them.
- Use facial expressions to show if you are signing your own or someone else’s name.
For example, if Mary’s sign name is the letter M moved near her chin, you would sign M near your own chin to refer to yourself, shift left and sign a more distant M to refer to Mary, and sign a possessive M closer to your body to indicate “Mary’s.”
Name Signs vs Sign Names
“Name sign” and “sign name” can be used interchangeably, but some distinguish between them:
- Name sign – A simple sign used to identify someone, often based on the first letter of their name. May be given temporarily.
- Sign name – A unique and meaningful sign given to represent someone’s identity. A more permanent sign of membership.
So a name sign may be a quick reference based on the first letter, but a sign name reflects a deeper meaning about that person. However, both terms are commonly used to refer to someone’s identifying sign in sign language.
Appropriate Use of Sign Names
When using sign names, follow these guidelines:
- Only use the sign name of someone you know personally.
- Do not give yourself a sign name if you are not Deaf.
- Check with the person if you are uncertain about using their sign name.
- Respect the intimacy and significance of Deaf community sign names.
Because sign names represent such a personal connection, use them thoughtfully and appropriately. Make sure you have permission and use sign names respectfully.
The Significance of Sign Names
Sign names hold a deep sense of meaning and identity in Deaf culture. They represent:
- Inclusion in the Deaf community
- A visual expression of identity
- Meaningful life experiences
- Relationships and connections
- Shared language and culture
When a sign name is bestowed upon you, it is a sign of acceptance and an honor. Value your sign name as a representation of belonging with the Deaf community.
Conclusion
Mastering sign names is a key step in learning sign language vocabulary. Sign names allow efficient and meaningful references to people in ASL conversations. While simple for everyday use, they also carry deep cultural significance. Respect the tradition and intimacy of sign names as you learn to introduce yourself and refer to others in the Deaf community.
