Birthday in Sign Language (ASL)

ASL Dictionary 3 min read

How to sign Birthday in ASL
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The sign for “birthday” is a joyful expression used to convey the celebration of someone’s special day. It’s commonly used in social settings, parties, or when discussing upcoming or recent birthdays. This sign is an essential part of Deaf culture, where birthdays are often celebrated with great enthusiasm.

Last reviewed: March 15, 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I use the sign for ‘birthday’ in sentences?

You can incorporate the sign for ‘birthday’ into sentences by signing it along with relevant context. For example, you might say ‘My birthday is in July’ by signing ‘MY BIRTHDAY JULY’ while maintaining facial expressions that convey excitement.

Are there regional variations of the sign for ‘birthday’?

Yes, just like spoken languages, ASL can have regional variations. In some areas, you might see slight differences in handshape or movement, so it’s beneficial to observe local signers and adapt accordingly.

Is there a difference between formal and informal usage of the sign for ‘birthday’?

The sign for ‘birthday’ remains the same regardless of context, but the way you express it can change. In formal settings, you may want to use the sign with a more subdued expression, while in informal settings, you can be more animated and expressive.

What are some signs that are similar to ‘birthday’ and might be confused with it?

Signs like ‘party’ or ‘celebrate‘ can be visually similar and may be confused with ‘birthday’. Practicing these signs in context and paying attention to the accompanying facial expressions can help clarify your meaning.

How does the sign for ‘birthday’ compare to British Sign Language (BSL)?

In BSL, the sign for ‘birthday’ is different from ASL. While ASL uses an open ‘8’ handshape, BSL might utilize a different handshape and movement. It’s important to learn the specific signs for the sign language you’re using.

What teaching tips can help when introducing the sign for ‘birthday’?

When teaching the sign, demonstrate it in context by incorporating it into birthday-themed activities or conversations. Encourage students to practice with facial expressions and to use it in real-life scenarios, such as during birthday celebrations, to reinforce their learning.

Table of Contents

Sign at a Glance

Type Noun
Sign Type One-Handed
Location Head
Handshape open_8
Movement None
Iconicity Arbitrary (1.242/7) — Arbitrary
Frequency Common (5.185/7)
Compound Sign Yes (2 morphemes)
ASL Signbank View sign video →

Data: ASL-LEX 2.0 · ASL Signbank (Caselli et al., 2017)

How to Sign “Birthday”

  1. Start with your dominant hand in an open “8” handshape (your fingers should be extended and slightly apart).
  2. Position your hand near your forehead, with your palm facing away from you.
  3. Move your hand forward away from your forehead while keeping the “8” shape. This motion represents the idea of celebrating the day.
  4. Maintain a friendly facial expression, reflecting the happiness associated with birthdays.

Common Mistakes

  • Some learners mistakenly use a flat handshape instead of the open “8” handshape, which alters the sign’s meaning.
  • Moving the hand in a circular motion instead of a forward motion can lead to confusion, as it is not the correct action for this sign.
  • Neglecting to incorporate a cheerful facial expression can make the sign less engaging and miss the celebratory tone of birthdays.
  • 1 Dollar – Used when discussing money.
  • 23 – A numeric sign often used in counting or age discussions.
  • 5 Dollars – Another sign related to currency.
  • 8 Hour – Frequently used in conversations about time.
  • A – The letter A in ASL, foundational for spelling names or words.

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