CHICKEN in sign language

How do you say "chicken" in ASL?

Definition: a domestic fowl kept for its eggs or meat.

Pronunciation (production): Dominant "20" (handshape), palm facing outward (orientation), the back of the hand on the mouth (location), forefinger and thumb tapping generally twice (movement), with the "CH" mouth morpheme (NMS).

Learner tip: Not to confuse this sign with BIRD.

Word associations: HEN, ROOSTER, EGG, KFC.

Ask Q, Answer Q

Question: How about the sign with two flexed arms and fists, flapping the elbows at the same time?

Answer: Sometimes, barely used. It can be used as a gesture (not as a signed word) to communicate between two persons who doesn't know the common language. Many Deaf people can be quite creative in communication and gestures with foreigners, travelers, and non-signing hearing people.