How to sign “Nations” in ASL

Everyday Life

The BSL sign for “Nations” isn't in our dictionary yet — it will be fingerspelled in BSL mode, never replaced with this ASL sign.

Step by step

  1. Shape your dominant hand into a loose N: fold your index and middle fingers down over your tucked thumb.
  2. Close your non-dominant hand into a fist and hold it steady in front of your chest.
  3. Move the N hand in one clockwise circle in the air just above the fist.
  4. Set the N hand down firmly on the back of the fist, like planting a flag.
  5. Keep your face composed and official — this is a formal word, not a casual one.

Practice tip

Plural of “Nation” — sign the base sign (often repeated) for more than one.

Fingerspell “Nations”

Letter by letter — a handy backup if you forget the sign above. This is not the sign itself.

ASL handshape for letter NASL handshape for letter AASL handshape for letter TASL handshape for letter IASL handshape for letter OASL handshape for letter NASL handshape for letter S

See all ASL handshapes in the alphabet reference

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.

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