How to sign "people" in ASL

How to Sign "People"

“People” is signed by using both hands in the “P” (or thumb-down “K”) handshape and tracing downward arcs:

• Form the “P” handshape with both hands (thumb down, index and middle extended downward).
• Hold your hands side by side at shoulder height.
• Move both hands downward in small arcs, repeating the gesture once or twice.

Watch a demo here

Tips

• Picture a crowd—multiple figures moving downward together.
• Keep arcs smooth and parallel.

Common Mistakes

• Using only one hand—need both for plural sense.
• Slow or jagged motion—should be clear and rhythmic.

Think: “P‑hands trace people walking downward.”