How to sign “Category” in ASL
The BSL sign for “Category” isn't in our dictionary yet — it will be fingerspelled in BSL mode, never replaced with this ASL sign.
Step by step
- Open both hands into relaxed curved-5 shapes, fingers loosely curled like soft claws.
- Hold the hands up at chest height with the palms facing slightly forward.
- Push both hands forward together in one smooth motion.
- As the hands travel, twist both wrists so the palms turn slightly backward.
- Imagine sliding your hands around the sides of a large invisible ball.
- Keep your expression neutral — this GROUP sign doubles as CATEGORY, CLASS, or COLLECTION.
Practice tip
Lifeprint notes this GROUP/CLUSTER sign can be labeled CATEGORY — use it when sorting things into labeled sets.
Fingerspell “Category”
Letter by letter — a handy backup if you forget the sign above. This is not the sign itself.
Text-based guide researched from established ASL references (Lifeprint, university and public-health materials) and rewritten in original words. Signer-created photos and videos are a planned future upgrade.