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

She learned sign language and took part in a program that taught her to train service dogs for the blind.

From Los Angeles Times

Throughout the production, sign language is performed by the entire cast of 20 actors, about half of whom are Deaf or hard-of-hearing.

From Los Angeles Times

Noah does not speak but sometimes uses pictures, an app on a tablet, or some sign language to communicate.

From Los Angeles Times

She was also the first person to deliver a CBeebies bedtime story in sign language.

From BBC

And then came the hand motions, a sign language of silliness that might have gotten him sent to the principal’s office if he were in school.

From Seattle Times