sign language
Americannoun
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Also called sign. any of several visual-gestural systems of communication, especially employing manual gestures, as used among deaf people.
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any means of communication, as between speakers of different languages, using gestures.
noun
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another word for signing
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any system of communication by manual signs or gestures
Etymology
Origin of sign language
First recorded in 1840–50
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 smack talk in sign language, and it always gets a chuckle out of coach Thomas Randolph.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 25, 2026
Wallace communicates with sign language or through his interpreter, Jo Beth Prince.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 25, 2026
They already have created a unique communication style — even though Barton doesn’t know much sign language and Wallace can’t speak.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 25, 2026
Northern Ireland will become the first part of the UK to provide free sign language classes to all deaf children and their families, through a new sign language law being passed on Tuesday.
From BBC ● Apr. 27, 2026
If the student has an educational or sign language interpreter, work closely with the interpreter for optimal success.
From "Music and the Child" by Natalie Sarrazin
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
