How to Sign "Drunk" in American Sign Language

The short answer

In American Sign Language (ASL), "drunk" is commonly taught as a one-handed sign made near the mouth and chin. Extend the thumb from a closed fist so it points toward your mouth, then sweep the hand down and to the side past your chin, as if tipping a bottle. The movement and facial expression carry much of the meaning.

Two clarifications affect this answer. First, this guide covers how to sign the word "drunk." It does not cover signing a document while intoxicated. Second, sign languages are not universal. Because this guide is written for a US audience, it describes ASL. British Sign Language (BSL), Auslan and other sign languages use different signs.

What this description is based on, and its gaps

No source material, dictionary entries or videos were supplied for this article. The description above reflects the form commonly shown in ASL learning materials, but it has not been checked against a specific reference here. ASL also varies by region, community and generation, so the people you sign with may use a different form.

Text cannot fully show palm orientation, speed or facial expression. Before relying on this sign in conversation, compare it with a video from a reputable ASL dictionary or confirm it with a fluent Deaf signer.

Step by step

• 1. Handshape: Use your dominant hand. Make a loose fist and extend the thumb. This is the ASL "A" handshape with the thumb out.
• 2. Starting position: Bring the hand near your face so the thumb points toward your mouth or just beside it.
• 3. Movement: Sweep the hand down and to the side, past your chin, in a short arc. It should look like tipping a bottle toward your mouth.
• 4. Facial expression: Use an expression that fits what you mean. A relaxed, slightly unfocused expression suggests being intoxicated. A neutral face suits a factual statement such as "he was not drunk."
• 5. Repeat for context if needed. Some signers repeat or exaggerate the movement to show degree, for example "very drunk." Check this usage with a fluent signer before using it.

How to check that you're signing it correctly

• Mirror check: Your thumb should point toward the mouth area at the start, and the hand should end lower and off to the side. The motion should not be a straight drop.
• Compare with video: Watch a reputable ASL dictionary clip. Check the handshape, starting point, direction of the arc and facial expression one at a time.
• Ask a fluent signer: This is the only check that confirms the sign is understood the way you intend, including regional preferences.

A mirror or video comparison shows whether your form matches the reference. It does not show whether your local signing community uses that form, or whether your facial expression reads naturally. Only feedback from fluent signers covers those points.

Avoiding confusion with similar signs

Signs about drinking are made in the same area of the face. You may see a hand shaped as if holding a cup or bottle tipped toward the mouth, which usually means drinking rather than the state of being drunk. Because these signs are easy to confuse, check the specific forms against a reference.

A reliable fallback: fingerspelling

If you are unsure of the sign, or the other person doesn't recognize your version, fingerspell the word: D-R-U-N-K. Fingerspelling uses the ASL manual alphabet and is widely understood among ASL users. After that, the other person may show you the sign they use.