Synonyms

fingerspelling

American

[fing-ger-spel-ing] / ˈfɪŋ gərˌspɛl ɪŋ /

noun

the communication in sign language of a word or other expression by rendering its written form letter by letter in a manual alphabet.

Etymology

Origin of fingerspelling

finger + spelling

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

“It’s very important for fingerspelling to be clear,” said Rash through a sign language interpreter.

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 11, 2022

I pressed “play” again and watched Will’s careful signing, his fingerspelling, his nervous relief at the end.

From New York Times • Dec. 17, 2021

The company launched fingerspelling mobile app Ace ASL for iOS in April, and for Android earlier this month.

From The Verge • Sep. 21, 2021

I spoke to Richer via email about what she thought of this year’s Oscars, her experience working on The Shape of Water, and that one particularly profane fingerspelling scene.

From Slate • Mar. 12, 2018

As with many languages, there are variations in fingerspelling actions based on what region you're from, what your family speaks or how old you are.

From BBC • Apr. 30, 2013

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023