Understanding the Meaning, Etiquette, and Cultural Significance of Name Signs in ASL
If you’re beginning to learn American Sign Language (ASL) or have recently started engaging with the Deaf community, you may have come across the concept of a “name sign.” Name signs are more than just a convenient way to refer to someone—they are a meaningful part of Deaf culture and identity.
In this post, we’ll explore what name signs are, how they’re created, and why they matter so much in the Deaf community.
A name sign is a unique sign used to identify a specific person without needing to fingerspell their full name every time. Rather than spelling out “A-L-E-X-A-N-D-R-A” repeatedly, for example, a name sign provides a quicker and more natural way to refer to someone in conversation. It functions similarly to a nickname but carries deep cultural and linguistic significance.
Name signs are used consistently within the Deaf community and are an important aspect of cultural belonging and personal identity.
There are generally two types of name signs:
Descriptive Name Signs (DNS): These name signs reflect something about a person’s physical features, personality traits, or behaviors. For example, someone known for their curly hair might have a name sign that visually mimics curls near the head.
Arbitrary Name Signs (ANS): These use the initial letter of a person’s name and are placed in a specific location on or near the body. For example, someone named Robert might have a name sign that involves the letter “R” tapped on the shoulder or near the chest.
Over time, a person may evolve from having an arbitrary name sign to a more descriptive one, especially as they become more involved or recognized within the community.
One of the most important rules about name signs is that you cannot assign one to yourself. In Deaf culture, a name sign is typically given by a Deaf person or by someone who is deeply connected to the community. It is seen as a gesture of inclusion and respect.
Receiving a name sign usually occurs after spending time within the community, building trust, and forming relationships. It’s a way of saying, “You are a part of us.”
It’s important to approach name signs with cultural awareness. Here are a few key guidelines:
Trying to shortcut the process can be seen as disrespectful and dismissive of Deaf culture and traditions.
Name signs are more than just practical tools. They reflect identity, community connection, and cultural acceptance. When someone receives a name sign, it symbolizes that they are seen and valued within the Deaf world.
For Deaf individuals, name signs are tied to cultural pride. For hearing individuals learning ASL, receiving a name sign is a powerful sign of trust and inclusion.
Imagine a student named Alex who has been learning ASL and consistently attending Deaf events, volunteering, and building friendships. Over time, a Deaf friend gives them a name sign: the letter “A” tapped twice on the shoulder. It may seem simple, but to Alex, it’s a meaningful moment—one that signifies belonging, acceptance, and identity within the community.
Name signs are a vital part of Deaf culture, rich with meaning and tradition. They are not given casually, and they are not something you can give to yourself. If you’re learning ASL or becoming more involved in the Deaf community, be patient. Let the relationships grow. Show respect. And when the time is right, your name sign will come naturally.
It will be more than a sign—it will be a symbol that you are part of something bigger.
Interested in learning more about ASL and Deaf culture?
Explore authentic lessons and cultural insights at ASLdeafined.com, where Deaf professionals guide learners through the richness of the language and community.