SIGN LANGUAGE

Definition of SIGN LANGUAGE

SIGN LANGUAGE Noun

Sign language is primarily used as a noun, referring to a visual language that uses manual communication and gestures to convey meaning and facilitate communication among individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing.

As a noun, sign language denotes a complex and structured system of communication involving handshapes, movements, facial expressions, and body language. For example, “American Sign Language (ASL) is widely used by the deaf community in the United States,” highlights its role as a primary means of communication.

Linguistic Characteristics: Sign languages are fully-fledged languages with their own grammar, syntax, and semantics, distinct from spoken languages. They vary regionally and culturally, reflecting the diversity and richness of deaf communities worldwide.

Accessibility and Inclusivity: Sign language promotes inclusivity and accessibility for deaf individuals, enabling them to communicate effectively, participate in social interactions, access education, and engage in professional environments.

Educational and Developmental Benefits: Early exposure to sign language supports language acquisition, cognitive development, and literacy skills among deaf children and individuals with hearing impairments. It enhances their ability to express thoughts, emotions, and ideas fluently.

Cultural Identity: Sign language plays a vital role in deaf culture, fostering community solidarity, pride, and cultural heritage. It facilitates cultural expression through storytelling, poetry, performing arts, and social activism within the deaf community.

Legal Recognition and Rights: International conventions and laws recognize sign languages as essential for promoting linguistic and cultural rights, advocating for sign language interpretation services, education in sign language, and access to information for deaf individuals.

Technological Advances: Technology, such as video relay services (VRS) and mobile apps, enhances communication accessibility for deaf individuals, bridging gaps in real-time communication and facilitating interaction across languages and cultures.

Advocacy and Awareness: Advocacy efforts promote awareness of sign language as a linguistic human right and advocate for its integration into mainstream education, media, and public services to foster inclusive societies.

In conclusion, sign language is a vital means of communication and cultural expression for deaf individuals, embodying linguistic diversity, inclusivity, and community solidarity. Recognizing and supporting sign language rights contributes to promoting equality, accessibility, and respect for linguistic diversity globally.

Examples of SIGN LANGUAGE in a sentence

  • Sign language is a visual means of communication using gestures, facial expressions, and body language.
  • She learned American sign language to communicate with her deaf cousin.
  • Sign language varies across different countries and regions.
  • The interpreter translated the speech into sign language for the audience.
  • Children can learn basic sign language to communicate with deaf peers.
  • Sign language is recognized as a fully-fledged language with its own grammar and syntax.
  • Deaf individuals rely on sign language to navigate everyday interactions.
  • There are different dialects of sign language used within the deaf community.

Origin of SIGN LANGUAGE

The term sign language traces its origins and evolution through various languages and cultural contexts, reflecting its importance as a means of communication for the deaf and hard of hearing.

  • Etymology and Origins: The phrase sign language combines “sign”, from the Latin “signum”, meaning “mark” or “token”, with “language”, derived from the Latin “lingua”, meaning “tongue” or “speech”. Together, these words describe a system of communication using visual gestures and signs.
  • Historical Development: Sign languages have been used for centuries, with historical records of their use in ancient societies such as Greece and Rome. However, it wasn’t until the 18th century that formalized systems began to emerge, most notably with the development of French Sign Language (LSF) by Charles-Michel de l’Épée.
  • Cultural and Educational Significance: Sign languages gained prominence through the establishment of schools for the deaf. In the United States, American Sign Language (ASL) emerged in the early 19th century, influenced by LSF and indigenous sign systems. These languages became crucial for deaf communities to communicate, educate, and preserve their cultural heritage.
  • Modern Recognition and Usage: Today, sign languages are recognized as fully-fledged languages with their own grammar and syntax, distinct from the spoken languages of their regions. They are used by millions worldwide and are increasingly gaining recognition and rights within educational systems and public life.

The term sign language encapsulates a rich history of development and cultural significance, highlighting its essential role in enabling communication and fostering community among the deaf and hard of hearing.

Synonyms

  • Manual language
  • Gesture-based communication
  • Nonverbal communication
  • Finger-spelling
  • Hand signaling
  • Visual communication
  • Silent language
  • Deaf communication

Antonyms

  • Verbal language
  • Spoken language
  • Oral communication
  • Auditory language
  • Speech
  • Speaking
  • Vocal communication
  • Listening

Related

  • Deaf culture
  • Interpreter
  • Communication access
  • Signer
  • American Sign Language (ASL)
  • Deaf community
  • Finger spelling
  • Hearing impairment

🌐 🇬🇧 SIGN LANGUAGE in other languages

Terms of Use

Privacy & Cookies

Disclaimer

Who We Are

Main Sections

Idioms

Geographical Locations

Organisations

Professions

Let´s Talk

Contact

Instagram

® 2024 https://DefinitionGo.com