ASL LOVE
🤟 How to sign
To sign "MERRY CHRISTMAS" in American Sign Language (ASL), first sign "MERRY" with both hands in loose fists making small circular motions at chest level, then sign "CHRISTMAS" by forming a "C" handshape with your dominant hand and placing it on the back of your non-dominant hand.
📖 Word definition
A traditional greeting expressing joy and good wishes during the Christmas holiday season, celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ.
🎯 Detailed Hand Movement Guide
- Hand Shape: For "MERRY": loose fists; For "CHRISTMAS": dominant hand in "C" shape, non-dominant hand flat.
- Starting Position: "MERRY" at chest level; "CHRISTMAS" with non-dominant hand extended palm down.
- Movement: "MERRY": small alternating circular motions; "CHRISTMAS": place C hand on back of flat hand.
- Path: "MERRY": circles move upward slightly; "CHRISTMAS": direct placement with slight emphasis.
- Hand Orientation: "MERRY": knuckles face forward; "CHRISTMAS": C opening faces down toward flat hand.
- Facial Expression: Bright, joyful expression with genuine smile throughout both signs.
⚠️ Common Mistakes & What to Avoid
❌ Tight fists: Use loose, relaxed fists for "MERRY", not clenched.
❌ Wrong C placement: Place C hand on back of flat hand, not palm side.
❌ No facial expression: Show genuine joy and celebration in your face.
❌ Rushing the signs: Take time to clearly form each sign distinctly.
💬 Common Sentence Examples
"Merry Christmas to you!"
How to sign: Sign "MERRY CHRISTMAS" (loose fists circling, then C on flat hand) → point to person with index finger → add enthusiastic facial expression.
"We wish you a Merry Christmas."
How to sign: Sign "WE" (point to self, sweep to include group) → sign "WISH" (flat hand from chest outward) → sign "YOU" (point forward) → sign "MERRY CHRISTMAS".
"Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!"
How to sign: Sign "MERRY CHRISTMAS" → sign "AND" (flat hand moves right while closing to flat O) → sign "HAPPY" (flat hands brush up chest) → sign "NEW" (back of hand brushes across palm) → sign "YEAR" (fists circle around each other).