How to sign “Relationship” in ASL
The BSL sign for “Relationship” isn't in our dictionary yet — it will be fingerspelled in BSL mode, never replaced with this ASL sign.
Step by step
- Bend the fingers of both hands into loose hooks, like two clasps ready to link.
- Bring both hooked hands together at mid-chest, interlocking the fingers of one hand with the other.
- Slide the linked hands back and forth against each other in a short cooperative sawing motion.
- Keep your palms facing each other while the hooked fingers stay interlocked.
- Hold a warm, engaged expression — the sign also means COOPERATION, so show the teamwork.
Practice tip
Lifeprint teaches this for relationship and cooperation alike — linked fingers are the bond; the back-and-forth is the working together.
Fingerspell “Relationship”
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.