FACE in sign language

Learn different signwords for "face" and its phrases in American Sign Language.

ASL signs for FACE

Two different signs - one for a noun and one for a verb.

Meaning (noun): The front part of the head, from the forehead to the chin.

Pronunciation/articulation: Dominant forefinger (palm in) moves in a circular outline around the face.

Related signs: On the front part of the HEAD from FOREHEAD to the CHIN, you have two EYES, EYEBROWS above the eyes, a NOSE, a MOUTH, a couple of the CHEEKS, and GLABELLA on the top of nose.

Verb: To confront and deal with or accept.

Pronunciation/articulation: Dominant "B-thumb" handshape (palm out) behind passive "B-thumb" handshape (palm in) in front of the signer move upward in an arc.

Phrase: make a face

When you contort your face to frown, scowl, or pout, you make a face.

Meaning (make a face): to put a silly or rude expression on your face.

Meaning (make a face): to put a silly or rude expression on your face to show you dislike someone or something.

Related signs: FACIAL EXPRESSION.

Usage/Grammar

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ASL has its own grammar and structure in sentences that works differently from English. For plurals, verb inflections, word order, etc., learn grammar in the "ASL Learn" section. For search in the dictionary, use the present-time verbs and base words. If you look for "said", look up the word "say". Likewise, if you look for an adjective word, try the noun or vice versa. E.g. The ASL signs for French and France are the same. If you look for a plural word, use a singular word.