How to Sign “Brother” in ASL

The short answer

In American Sign Language (ASL), BROTHER is usually made with both hands in an “L” handshape. Your dominant hand starts at your forehead and moves down to land on top of your other hand, which waits in front of your body. The forehead marks the sign as male, and the two hands coming together side by side suggest “same,” as in someone from the same family.

Step by step

• 1. Form an “L” with each hand: thumb and index finger extended, the other three fingers curled into the palm.
• 2. Hold your non-dominant hand at about chest or waist height, palm facing down, index finger pointing forward.
• 3. Bring your dominant hand up so the thumb touches or comes close to your forehead, index finger pointing forward.
• 4. Move your dominant hand down in one smooth motion and set it on top of your non-dominant hand, so both index fingers point forward and line up.
• 5. End the sign there. One clean downward movement is enough; you don't need to tap or repeat it.

A common variation

Some signers use a “1” handshape instead of an “L,” with only the index finger extended and the thumb tucked in. The movement is the same: the dominant hand goes from the forehead down onto the other hand. Both forms are widely understood. Which one you see can depend on region, community or the person teaching you, so follow the version used by the people you sign with.

Details that change the meaning

• Starting location: BROTHER starts at the forehead. SISTER uses the same movement but starts at the jaw or cheek, the area ASL uses for many female signs. If you start in the wrong place, you'll sign the wrong word.
• Which sign language: this guide covers ASL, which is used in the US and parts of Canada. British Sign Language and other national sign languages have different signs for “brother.”
• Older or younger: the basic sign doesn't say whether he is older or younger. If that matters, people usually add more information or spell it out in context.
• Non-family meanings: using “brother” for a close friend or a fellow member of a group works differently in conversation. This text has no confirmed evidence on how ASL handles those uses, so ask a fluent signer if you need them.

Checking your sign on camera

If you're practicing with a webcam or will use the sign on a video call, record a short clip and watch it back. The fact that your browser or app has camera access only means the camera can turn on. You still need to check that the recording actually captures your hands, and that a live call is smooth enough for the movement to come through.

• Framing: make sure the frame shows everything from the top of your head to below your chest, so both the forehead start and the hand position at the end stay visible.
• Lighting: put the light in front of you rather than behind you, so your hands and face aren't in shadow.
• Background: a plain physical background that contrasts with your skin and clothing makes handshapes easier to read. Virtual backgrounds and blur effects in call apps can cut off or smear moving fingers, so consider turning them off while signing.
• Speed: sign at a normal pace, then check the playback for blur. If the index fingers or thumb look smeared, slow down slightly or add light.

What this guide can't confirm

No source material was supplied for this article. The description above reflects how the sign is commonly taught, but a written description can't fully show handshape, palm angle and movement. Before relying on it, compare it with a video ASL dictionary, or ask a Deaf signer or certified ASL instructor to watch you sign it.