ASL Signs for AWARD

"How do you say 'award' in American Sign Language?"

Meaning (verb): Give or order the giving of (something) as an official payment, compensation, or prize to (someone).

Pronunciation (sign description): Two hands with the "Y" handshape in which both corresponding thumbs and pinkies are apart near each other and the palms face the signer. The thumbs and pinkies tap together twice.

Meaning (noun): A prize or other mark of recognition given in honor of an achievement.

Pronunciation (sign description): Two hands with the "Y" handshape in which both thumbs and pinkies are in contact and the palms face teh signer. The hands move toward with a small arc motion.

Related signs: TROPHY, PRIZE, MEDAL, HONOR.

Deaf Bragging Rights

Several Deaf people have earned prestigious awards such as the following:

Deaf American actor Troy Kotsur won the Academy Award for best supporting actor for "CODA" onstage during the 94th Oscars at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, California on March 27, 2022. He was the first deaf male actor win an Oscar.

Deaf American actress Marlee Matlin (1965-), who starred alongside Troy Kotsur in "CODA", became the first Deaf actor to win an Academy Award or Oscar in 1987 for her in "Children of a Lesser God." In addition, she was the youngest best actress Oscar winner and still is (as of 2021).

See some related ASL words for more awards to Deaf winners: Liisa Kauppinen (United Nations Human Rights Award), Nyle DiMarco (Mirror Ball trophy for Dancing with the Stars), Charmaine Letourneau (Order of Canada), ...

Deaf community is proud of these Deaf award winners. Handwave applause!

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