How to sign "want" in ASL

How to Sign "Want"

“Want” is signed by holding your hands out in front of you (palms up) and pulling them slightly back toward your body while curling your fingers inward:

• Start with open hands in front of you, palms up and fingers relaxed.
• Pull your hands back slightly toward your torso.
• At the same time, curl your fingers inward like you're grabbing something.

Watch a demo here

Tips

• Imagine pulling something desirable toward you.
• The motion is smooth, not jerky or forceful.

Common Mistakes

• Leaving hands stiff — your fingers should gently curl as you pull.
• Over-exaggerating the motion — it’s a subtle, natural sign.

Think: “I want that — bring it to me.”