Curly-Haired, Permanent Wave in New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL)

The NZSL sign for “curly-haired, permanent wave” is used to describe someone with curly hair or a permanent wave hairstyle. This sign is common in conversations about personal style, hair care, and aesthetics within the New Zealand Deaf community, reflecting cultural elements of beauty and self-expression.

How to Sign “Permcurly, Curly-Haired, Permanent WavewhakakōRinoadjective; Noun” in NZSL

1. Start with your dominant hand in a “C” shape.
2. Position your hand near the top of your head, with your palm facing inwards.
3. Move your hand in small circular motions, mimicking the motion of curling hair.
4. As you perform the circular motion, keep a relaxed facial expression, showing that this is a light-hearted or casual sign.
5. Finish with your hand at the side of your head, maintaining the “C” shape to emphasize the hairstyle.

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting to use the “C” handshape, which can lead to confusion with other signs.
• Using too large of a circular motion, making the sign unclear.
• Neglecting facial expressions, which are important in NZSL for conveying the appropriate tone and emotion.

NZSL vs ASL

In NZSL, the sign for curly hair is represented with a “C” handshape and circular motion, while in ASL, the sign is typically made with both hands using a different handshape and movement. This highlights the unique characteristics of NZSL as it incorporates local influences, including aspects from te reo Māori.

Related Signs

• HAIR – A general sign for hair.
• CURLY – Specifically refers to the texture of curly hair.
• STYLE – Discussing different hairstyles or fashion styles.
• WAVE – Related to hair waves or waves in general.
• BEAUTIFUL – Often used to compliment someone’s appearance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you use this sign in a sentence?

Yes! For example, you could say, “I have curly hair” by combining the sign for “I,” “have,” and the sign for “curly-haired.”

Are there regional variations of this sign in New Zealand?

While the sign is generally understood across New Zealand, some regions may have slight variations in movement or handshape, reflecting local dialects.

What are some similar signs to “curly-haired”?

Related signs include “CURLY,” “HAIR,” and “WAVE,” which can be used in similar contexts.

How can I improve my signing skills?

Practice regularly, watch videos of fluent signers, and consider joining a local NZSL class or group to enhance your skills.

Is facial expression important in NZSL?

Absolutely! Facial expressions add meaning and context to signs, helping convey emotions and the intensity of what you’re expressing.

What should I do if I feel unsure about a sign?

It’s always okay to ask for clarification or demonstration from a fluent signer or teacher. Practice and patience are key to learning NZSL.

How does NZSL incorporate te reo Māori?

NZSL has signs that reflect Māori culture and language, and some signs may have Māori influences, making the language unique to New Zealand.