The American Sign Language (ASL) sign for “doctor” is a fundamental sign in medical and everyday contexts. Interestingly, there isn’t just one way to sign “doctor” in ASL. Like many signs in ASL, the sign for “doctor” has variations, and understanding these nuances can enrich your ASL vocabulary and communication. This article will explore the most common variations of the sign for “doctor” in ASL, delve into its historical evolution, and provide guidance on choosing the best sign to use.
The Recommended “Medical Doctor” Sign in ASL
The most widely recommended and recognized sign for “doctor,” particularly for a medical doctor, involves a “bent hand” handshape. Here’s how to perform this sign:
- Handshape: Form your dominant hand into a “bent hand” – similar to a “5” handshape but with your fingers bent at the knuckles. Your non-dominant hand should be in a relaxed, upturned palm position.
- Location and Movement: Tap the fingertips of your dominant “bent hand” twice on the upturned wrist of your non-dominant hand.
This version is often favored for its clarity and ease of execution. It’s a practical and efficient way to communicate “doctor” in ASL.
The “D” Handshape Version of the Doctor Sign
Another variation of the “Sign For Doctor Asl” utilizes the “D” handshape. In this version:
- Handshape: Form your dominant hand into a “D” handshape. Your non-dominant hand can be relaxed or flat, palm up.
- Location and Movement: Tap your “D” hand near the wrist area of your non-dominant hand, as if checking a pulse.
This “D” version is a recognizable sign for “doctor,” and while still used, it’s important to be aware of the more contemporary and widely accepted “bent hand” version.
Tracing the Evolution of the ASL Sign for “Doctor”
The sign for “doctor” in ASL has an interesting history, evolving over time. Historically, the sign was often produced using an “M” handshape.
The “M” Handshape Origin
The “M” handshape in the older version of the “doctor” sign is believed to originate from the word “medical.” Think of the term “medical doctor” or “medical practitioner”—the “M” sign served as an initialized sign referencing the medical profession. In the past, especially in the mid-20th century, the “M” handshape version was prevalent in ASL dictionaries and instruction.
Shift to “D” and Bent Hand Versions
Over time, the sign for “doctor” transitioned from the “M” handshape to the “D” handshape. The “D” handshape version, tapping the wrist as if taking a pulse, gained popularity. By the 1990s, the “D” hand version was frequently documented as the primary sign for “doctor.”
However, the evolution didn’t stop there. The “bent hand” version, which is now often recommended, emerged as an even more simplified and easier-to-produce sign compared to both “M” and “D” handshapes. The “bent hand” retains the location of the sign—tapping the wrist—but simplifies the hand configuration.
This progression highlights the dynamic nature of language, including sign language, where signs can evolve for ease of use and clarity over time.
Academic Doctors (PhDs) vs. Medical Doctors in ASL
It’s important to distinguish between a medical doctor (MD) and an academic doctor, such as a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) or Doctor of Education (EdD). In ASL, you would not use the sign for “medical doctor” when referring to your college professors or individuals with academic doctorates unless they are also medical doctors.
For academic doctorates (PhDs, EdDs, etc.), the title “Dr.” is generally fingerspelled as “D-R.” While formality with titles is less emphasized in the Deaf community, when introducing someone with a PhD to an audience, you would typically fingerspell “D-R” followed by their name. In casual conversation, name signs are predominantly used instead of titles.
Related Signs: Nurse and Surgery
Understanding the sign for “doctor” can also help you learn related medical signs in ASL. For example, the sign for “NURSE” is an initialized form of the “doctor” sign, using an “N” handshape on your dominant hand instead.
Similarly, the sign for “SURGERY” is another related medical term in ASL that you may find useful to learn alongside “doctor.”
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Sign and Embracing Variation
In conclusion, the “sign for doctor asl” has several variations, with the “bent hand” version being the most commonly recommended today for medical doctors. While the “D” hand version is still recognized, and the “M” hand version holds historical significance, the “bent hand” sign is considered the contemporary standard.
When learning and using ASL, it’s crucial to be aware of these variations. As Dr. Bill Vicars aptly advises, it’s best to use the version of the sign that is common among your local ASL community, instructors, or Deaf friends. Being flexible and understanding the evolution of ASL signs will make you a more effective and culturally sensitive communicator in the Deaf community.
