Kiss in British Sign Language (BSL)

The sign for “kiss” in BSL represents the affectionate act of kissing, commonly used in both romantic and friendly contexts within the UK Deaf community. It is a gesture that conveys love, care, and warmth, often used among family, friends, or partners.

How to Sign “Kiss” in BSL

1. Start with your dominant hand in a flat handshape, palm facing inwards.
2. Bring your hand towards your lips, as if you are about to kiss your palm.
3. As you bring your hand closer to your lips, slightly pucker your lips and lean your head slightly forward to emphasize the action of kissing.
4. Optionally, you can add a gentle blowing motion away from your palm after you ‘kiss’ it to signify sending a kiss to someone.

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting to use non-manual features like facial expressions, which are essential in BSL to convey emotion.
• Not bringing the hand close enough to the lips, which can make the sign unclear.
• Using a closed fist instead of a flat hand, which changes the meaning of the sign.

BSL vs ASL

In BSL, the sign for “kiss” uses a flat handshape brought to the lips, while in ASL, the sign is made by kissing the fingertips and then moving them away from the mouth. This difference highlights the unique grammar and expressive style of each sign language.

Related Signs

• Love – A sign representing deep affection for someone.
• Hug – A gesture for embracing someone warmly.
• Friend – The sign for a close companion or ally.
• Family – Represents familial relationships.
• Joy – A sign expressing happiness and delight.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I use “kiss” in a BSL sentence?

You could say “I kiss my friend” by signing “I” (point to yourself), then “kiss,” and finally “friend” (using the sign for friend).

Are there regional variations for the sign “kiss” in the UK?

Generally, the sign is consistent across the UK, but some regions may incorporate different facial expressions or slight variations in hand movement.

What similar signs should I learn?

Consider learning related signs like love, hug, and friend to expand your vocabulary.

Any tips for learning this sign?

Practice in front of a mirror to monitor your handshape and facial expressions. Watching videos can also help reinforce the correct form.

Can I sign “kiss” to express greetings?

Yes! The sign can be used to express affection in greetings, especially among friends and loved ones.

Is “kiss” used in a romantic context only?

No, while it is often used romantically, “kiss” can also express friendship and familial love.