sign language

noun

1. Also called sign. any of several visual-gestural systems of communication, especially employing manual gestures, as used among deaf people.

2. any means of communication, as between speakers of different languages, using gestures.

sign language

noun

1. another word for signing

2. any system of communication by manual signs or gestures

Word History and Origins

Origin of sign language¹

First recorded in 1840–50

Example Sentences

But after having her first child at 16, Rayner studied part-time at college, learning British sign language and gaining a vocational qualification in social care.

From BBC

A deaf Mongolian man who uses sign language to communicate has been released from immigration custody in Southern California after spending months in detention without access to an interpreter, a family member confirmed Saturday.

From Los Angeles Times

She said the hand gesture is sign language for “I Love You.”

From Los Angeles Times

Javier Diaz Santana, who is deaf and communicates using sign language, was swept up in a federal immigration raid at his job in Temple City.

From Los Angeles Times

Their mother knows some sign language; their father speaks in Spanish into Google Translate and then shows Diaz the English translation.

From Los Angeles Times