How to Sign 'M' in American Sign Language (ASL)

In American Sign Language (ASL), the letter "M" is represented by a specific handshape. To sign the letter "M," you form a fist with your dominant hand, and then place your thumb under your first three fingers, so that the thumb is resting against the palm and the fingers are curled over it. This handshape is part of the ASL manual alphabet, which is used for fingerspelling words and names that do not have a specific sign. Fingerspelling is often used for proper nouns, technical terms, or when a signer does not know the sign for a particular word. The manual alphabet is an essential component of ASL, allowing for clear communication and spelling out words when necessary. Understanding and practicing these handshapes is crucial for beginners learning ASL, as it forms the foundation for more complex signing and communication within the Deaf community.